Kilrush town centre. Image via Wikimedia Commons
The town of Kilrush, Co Clare, now has advanced broadband and telecommunications infrastructure, thanks to a €1.93m metropolitan area network (MAN) that has gone live.
Kilrush is the first town in Co Clare where a MAN has been activated since the Government launch of the programme in 2004.
The overall cost of the Kilrush MAN is €1.93m, which is made up of a Department of Communications, Energy and Natural Resources grant of €1.75m and 5pc contributions (€96,255) each from Clare County Council and Shannon Development, both members of the Shannon Broadband Limited consortium.
Limerick-based company e|net is the manager and operator of the Kilrush MAN. e|net CEO Conal Henry said the MAN operates on an open-access basis.
“This means that all authorised telecommunications operators can have access. This model is contrary to traditional operators’ exclusivity of network, and allows for competition in a way that has not previously happened,” Henry said.
Investment draw
Mayor of Kilrush Mairéad O’Brien said the telecommunications network serves as a significant boost to ongoing efforts to make the town attractive for outside investment.
“This world-class infrastructure is something that growing companies require and Kilrush Town Council, along with Clare County Council, will be contacting regional and national enterprise agencies to inform them that Kilrush is open and ready for business,” O’Brien said.
“I am also confident that the local education sector will also benefit greatly from the quality connectivity now being provided.”
Dr Vincent Cunnane, chief executive, Shannon Development, and chairman of Shannon Broadband, also spoke about investment potential.
“Ensuring fast, cost-effective broadband services is key to attracting inward investment and creating more jobs in the future and this new network sends a clear message to potential investors that Kilrush is at the cutting edge of information technology,” Cunnane said.
