NI will lead Europe in access to broadband

By the end of 2005, every household and business in Northern Ireland will have access to broadband, making it the first country in Europe to have 100% access.

The news was announced today by Ian Pearson, NIO Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Investment, who said it would make Northern Ireland “the leading broadband region in Europe .”

BT has been awarded the contract, following a tender process which attracted proposals from 27 companies across Europe.

“By the end of 2005 every household and every business in Northern Ireland, no matter how remote, will have access to broadband at the same price ” said Mr Pearson. “This vitally important contract will deliver the government's broadband vision of a fully connected Northern Ireland. In turn it will help make Northern Ireland more competitive .

He revealed that there had been a groundswell for broadband availability in Northern Ireland, with the demand exceeding that of any other region of the UK or Europe.

John Gilliland, President of the Ulster Farmers Union, also welcomed the announcement saying, “Broadband access to all rural areas will be a tremendous boost. Many rural communities have been campaigning to bring broadband to their locality…Having it available to every household in Northern Ireland will ensure that a rural / urban divide does not open up ”

The contract will be managed by the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Investment and is funded by the EU Building Sustainable Prosperity Programme.