Mayo island gets connected under National Broadband Plan
THE National Broadband Ireland (NBI) network has been launched on Inishturk.
The Mayo island’s premises join an additional 1,000 plus that can now order a high-speed broadband service as part of the Killadoon deployment area.
Significantly, on the back of the launch, NBI also highlighted how its high-speed fibre network helps in the delivery of next-generation Mission Critical Services (MCx) on Inishturk, supporting resilient, real-time communications for emergency response and critical infrastructure on the island.
Through NBI’s network, a proprietary MCx solution is now being enabled, bringing advanced operational communications capabilities, integrating instant push-to-talk voice, real-time data sharing, and live video streaming into a single, secure and prioritised platform for emergency services and infrastructure operators.
Dara Calleary, Minister for Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht, who was on the island to mark the occasion, commented: “Connecting Inishturk to high-speed fibre under the National Broadband Plan is a hugely significant milestone and a clear demonstration of this government’s commitment to regional and rural Ireland.
“As minister, I am proud to see this level of investment reaching our offshore islands, and what is particularly encouraging is how this connectivity is now enabling advanced solutions such as Mission Critical Services. On an island like Inishturk, where resilience and rapid response are vital, the ability to support real-time voice, data and video communications for emergency and essential services can make a meaningful difference to people’s safety and quality of life.”
Kevin Kelly, chief executive, Mayo County Council, stated: “Today’s milestone on Inishturk reflects the strength of partnership between Mayo County Council and National Broadband Ireland in delivering this transformative infrastructure. Connecting an offshore island is no small feat, and it is through close collaboration, local knowledge and a shared commitment to our communities that we are making it possible.
“We are also delighted to support innovative initiatives such as Mission Critical Services on the island, working closely with partners including the Office of the Government CIO (OGCIO) at the Department of Public Expenditure and Reform, NBI as well as technology partners. By combining NBI’s future-proofed network with forward-thinking digital leadership, we are enabling new ways for public services to operate and are ensuring that even in Ireland’s most remote communities, critical communications are resilient, secure and fit for the future.”
Danny O’Toole, broadband officer, Mayo County Council, commented: “The aftermath of severe weather events like Storm Éowyn highlighted the vulnerability of remote island communities like Inishturk to disruptions in critical communications infrastructure, particularly during medical emergencies. This pioneering initiative by NBI represents a significant step forward in strengthening emergency preparedness and the overall resilience for remote island communities.”