Ossian Smyth (Dún Laoghaire, Green Party) | Oireachtas source

Recently we completed research into the benefits of broadband in rural Ireland. Analysys Mason completed it for us to check we are meeting our cost-benefit. The cost-benefit of the project has greatly improved since it was first evaluated. It clearly was, in retrospect, the right thing to do.

It has the following effect, in simple terms. A rural village would previously have hoped for jobs through the erection of a factory. Now people are coming back with jobs and money, living near their families in that village and providing services, and cafés are starting up in them, because of the fibre. It is a new way to bring jobs, economy and population back to rural Ireland. Every county in Ireland, according to the CSO, is increasing in population. It is a vital tool for balanced regional development. It is revitalising rural towns around the country. Estate agents will say the number one feature to sell a home in rural Ireland is whether it has a fibre connection because that determines whether one can pay the mortgage.

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