Ground surveys to prepare for the rollout of fibre broadband next year are getting underway in parts of east Galway and Roscommon.
National Broadband Ireland, the consortium which holds the contract for the NBP, has contracted company 4site to commence ground surveys starting from this week.
The first surveys in Galway will take place in the Ballinasloe area, which include inspection and recording of poles, cables and underground ducts.
This is prep work for the build-out phase of the Plan which is due to get underway before Easter 2021.
Galway-Roscommon TD Denis Naughten says that homes in these areas will be offered internet speeds 150mbps within the next 12 months.
But that will go up over 2021 he claims, with rural homes expected to receive speeds of up to 1000mbps, while businesses will be able to get up to 10,000mbps.
“The 4site teams have been fully trained in physical distancing practices, hygiene, appropriate use of personal protective equipment and how to engage with the public in a safe manner when required,” Deputy Naughten said of the surveyors.
Data gathered during these surveys over the coming weeks will be used to create detailed maps to ensure a smooth building process over the next year.
Rural homes in the Ballinasloe area will be the first in east Galway to have their fibre broadband delivered Naughten said, followed by Newbridge.
