By definition, most of those are in remote areas and hence the laying of the fibre cable will be expensive. Having high-speed broadband in rural areas is a necessary but not sufficient condition for stronger and more balanced regional economic growth and development. The economic payback from providing broadband to remote rural areas would be a lot less compelling but the social benefits would be enormous. Ahead of elections, the rushed agreement on the broadband plan does not look sensible. Ensuring value for taxpayers money should now become the priority.

Source: Irish Examiner May 09, 2019 23:03 UTC