Installation of outdoor public Wi-Fi access points starting in Mayo
A PROJECT to provide free public Wi-Fi hotspots in a number of locations across Mayo is progressing, with work on connections starting in the coming weeks.
The Wifi4EU scheme is an initiative of the European Commission which provides funding to local authorities to provide free Wi-Fi access in public places such as main streets, public parks, museums, libraries and other public areas.
Mayo County Council were successful in securing €60,000 under the WiFi4EU initiative.
This funding will be match with funds by the Department of Rural and Community Development, bringing the total funding for this project in Mayo to €120,000.
Westnet Broadband Mayo Ltd. were awarded the contract to roll out the initiative, which was signed in Áras an Chontae today (Monday).
Nine locations in Mayo have already been selected to host this new service. These are Belmullet and Newport in the Westport-Belmullet Municipal District, Ballina and Crossmolina in the Ballina Municipal District, Swinford, Ballinrobe and Claremorris in the Claremorris-Swinford Municipal District, and Castlebar and Turlough in the Castlebar Municipal District.
Said chief executive of Mayo County Council, Peter Hynes: “We are delighted to sign the contract with Westnet, a local broadband provider here in Mayo, to set up outdoor public Wi-Fi access points. This will provide free Wi-Fi for visitors and local residents across the county, helping to bring about a better digitally connected Mayo.
“Congratulations must go to everyone who worked so hard in getting this project developed.”
The cathaoirleach of Mayo County Council, Councillor Cllr Brendan Mulroy, added: “It’s a fantastic achievement to get such connectivity to County Mayo. I commend those involved in this project and look forward to seeing the people of Mayo benefiting from this project.”
Said Paul Cunnane, CEO of Westnet: “As a Castlebar-based business we are honoured to have been chosen to deliver this innovative project. Our mission has always been to bring high-speed broadband to the people of Mayo and beyond, and this scheme gives us a new opportunity to continue that work.”