Businessman and Fianna Fáil’s local election candidate in the Killarney electoral area, Niall Kelleher, has called for renewed investment in broadband and telecommunications in Kerry.
According to Niall Kelleher, “To mark the 25th birthday of the internet, the Government should roll out proper broadband, with proper speeds, at affordable prices.”
“We need further investment in broadband infrastructure, right throughout Kerry, but especially in areas outside the major urban centres. I’m an employer in Killarney and our offices has very good speed internet, which allows us to provide top quality service to our clients. However, there are many businesses that are located in outlying areas that really struggle with internet connectivity. In addition to the thousands of families who rely on the internet to connect with their families all over the world, via Skype. The internet has just turned 25 years old, but more needs to be done by the Government to roll out services in Kerry.”
Niall Kelleher commented, “You only have to look around at the volume of people, including myself, who are using smartphones and iPads. We know that there has been a 75% increase in internet usage in Ireland in the last year. Despite this, the Government’s rural broadband scheme is falling way behind, with only 25% of targeted homes connecting to a broadband service, creating a digital divide between urban and rural communities.”
“Even in areas that are served by broadband, speeds are not always as advertised. I’m delighted to see that my Fianna Fáil colleague Michael Moynihan T.D, will be proposing an amendment to the ESB Electronic Communications Networks Bill 2013, which would ensure that speeds promised and advertised by providers are reflected in reality” concluded Niall Kelleher.
