enet has welcomed today’s launch of the Next Generation Broadband Taskforce (NGBT) report as an important step in the roll-out of 100Mbs broadband but has cautioned that further and immediate action is required.
The report reflects the increasing importance of digital engagement for Ireland’s economy and society in general and highlights a growing digital divide with large parts of the country unlikely to get access to NGB without urgent action. It also reiterates the Programme for Government’s commitment to the rollout of high speed broadband to every business and home in the country.
Conal Henry, CEO of enet commented, “enet is encouraged by the Minister’s announcement and his personal commitment to the delivery of superfast broadband across Ireland. The report clearly identifies the situation and highlights the critical need for a telecoms network capable of delivering broadband speed of 100Mbs.” Henry went on to say, “While enet agrees with the analysis, the country and its policy makers do, however, need to move quickly from analysis of the problem to delivery of the ultimate solution. The stakes have never been higher. How a country competes in this century will be defined by the relative quality of its digital infrastructure and those countries that build first will reap a long term economic benefit.”
Minister Rabbitte’s NGBT comprised of the CEOs of the major telcos operating in the Irish market. The taskforce was charged with generating a blueprint for the rollout of next generation broadband across the State and in particular, how best to couple private-sector and public sector investment.