West Tyrone Sinn Fein Sinn Féin -- Building an Ireland of Equals

Pilot Broadband initiative to be rolled out in Tyrone.

Published: 18 June, 2009

It has been revealed that Tyrone is to benefit from pioneering new broadband technology for areas throughout Tyrone affected by current broadband provision. A number of rural areas throughout Tyrone are not covered by the current broadband provision. These include parts of Loughmacrory, Greencastle, Drumquin as well as Aghyaran and Newtownstewart amongst others.

However it has been revealed that these areas are to be included in a pilot project which would see these areas being able to benefit from broadband services which is enjoyed by other areas through the north.

Welcoming the progress on the issue Sinn Féin Councillors Frankie Donnelly and Kieran McGuire said it was something that was long lobbied for:

"The announcement this week that these areas affected by current broadband coverage are set to receive broadband connections is very welcome. The new technology being used will allow for good quality broadband being accessed by businesses and domestic properties in these various areas.

"Today in the 21st century a good quality internet is increasingly becoming a necessity and the announcement that a pilot project is being rolled out in these areas are evidence of this. In order for the North to compete for high tech industry we need a fast modern reliable Broadband network that can meet the growing needs of this industry. This is one step in providing this.

"This project would see the areas of Dregish, Scraghy, Spamont, Newtownstewart and Aghyaran amongst others feel the huge benefits of broadband connection to the internet.

"Sinn Féin have lobbied DETI minister Arlene Foster for some time on this issue and we are glad the finally there seems to be an end in sight for those affected by this issue.

Meanwhile Claire McGill MLA will meet with the 2 people tasked with rolling out the broadband scheme in rural areas. Frank McManus and Michael Spires will meet with the West Tyrone MLA on Tuesday to discuss to roll out of the scheme in rural localities throughout the six counties.