A network of public broadband connection points have been launched to bring high-speed internet to rural areas of Galway.
There are currently 12 broadband connection points live in Galway, with plans for 10 more to follow in the coming months.
These BCPs, which are located in publicly accessible sites, provide a place for remote work and study, digital skills training, filing forms, and other digital services and amenities.
Cathaoirleach of Galway County Council Cllr Peter Keaveney “As one of the largest and most rural counties in Ireland, we must harness technology to ensure Galway remains an attractive place to live, learn, work, visit and do business.”
“Access to high-speed connectivity for all is essential for a digitally inclusive society and we look forward to supporting the BCPs and their communities on their journey”.
He added that this year will see a number of programmes run through the BCP network in the areas of remote work, digital skills, arts and e-health, with the goal of “future proofing” Galway.
The BCPs are part of the Connected Communities initiative, launched by the government in partnership with Vodafone and National Broadband Ireland (NBI), the company responsible for delivery of the National Broadband Plan.
Jim Cullen, Interim CEO of the County Council, said “The BCP project represents how the power of change driven on the ground at community level can shape our national future.”
“Connectivity is a tool and its importance in regenerating and revitalising rural communities cannot be understated.”
“I wish all of these communities well with their new Broadband Connection Points and am excited to see how they will grow and develop over the coming months and years”.
Funding to equip a number of sites was secured from the Department of Rural and Community Development.
Five BCPs received accelerated Town and Village funding in 2020 and eight BCPs received funding under the Connected Hubs Fund in 2021.
The Broadband Connection Points currently live in County Galway are:
- Comhar Chuigéal Teoranta Leitir Mealláin,
- Comhar Caomhán Teo
- Leabharlann Inis Mór
- Muintearas Teo
- Inisbofin Community Centre
- Glenamaddy Enterprise and Training Hub
- Cortoon Community and Childcare Centre
- Tuam Golf Club
- Sylane Community Facility
- Irish Workhouse Centre Portumna
- Leitrim Ballydugan Community Centre
- Clonberne Community Enterprise Centre
Further broadband connection points will be launched in:
- Halla Pobail Thír an Fhia
- Comharchumann Mhic Dara
- Ionad Pobail Inis Meáin
- Clonfert WiFi Hub
- Blue I Hub Milltown
- Raheen Community Centre
- Lackagh Museum and Heritage Centre
- Ballinakill Community Hall
- Clarinbridge Care Centre
- Ballyglunin Station
