Londonderry's wireless walls project set for expansion

Enterprise Minister Arlene Foster announced £80,000 funding to extend the Londonderry Wireless Walls Project into the wider city precincts.

The Wireless Walls Project, part funded by Department of Enterprise Trade and Investment and the European Union, tested the usability and usefulness of wireless networks in environments such as government, education and business groups. It offered tourists a greater choice of how to get information about Londonderry, through the use of podcasts and electronic tourist guides.

Announcing the additional funding, the Minister said: “This investment will fund the extension of the existing network to core commercial and neighbourhood areas, bringing substantial benefits to businesses, students, tourists and citizens alike. This will reinforce Londonderry’s position as a key Wireless City location.”

Using state-of-the-art wireless technologies, mobile broadband (wi-fi) customers will have a fast, simple and cost effective means to connect to the Internet over laptops, mobile phones and mobile information devices.

Arlene Foster continued: “The Londonderry Wireless Walls Project is also successfully operating in schools and local authorities. New teaching techniques are being introduced, such as electronic quizzes, to reinforce the subjects being taught. Meanwhile, local councillors can now access council documents and meeting minutes electronically, via wireless enabled laptops.

“I hope this extra funding will attract additional commercial investment from other service providers, complementing existing and emerging services. It will also afford social and community organisations the opportunity to enhance their services, through the adoption of emerging information technologies.”

The Minister concluded: “It is imperative that modern broadband services are made as widely available as possible, across Northern Ireland, as we seek to improve business efficiency, productivity and globalisation of products and services.

“I would encourage businesses and the local Council to exploit the opportunities this additional funding will bring.”

Notes to Editors:

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