Dodds welcomes introduction of super fast broadband

Finance Minister, Nigel Dodds has welcomed the announcement by BT of the introduction of super fast broadband to 30,000 customers across South and West Belfast.

Describing the move as good news for both businesses and individuals, Mr Dodds said: “Super fast broadband provides a platform for the delivery of next generation citizen facing services, for example video on demand, video conferencing and high quality online learning. In addition, other services focussed on well-being, including connected health and remote care, can benefit from the higher network speed and quality offered by super fast broadband.

“This announcement further enhances the reform agenda already being carried out within the Northern Ireland Civil Service and being led by my Department.

“Government investment in delivery of broadband access across Northern Ireland has already started to deliver dividends. This increased capability in higher bandwidth will place Northern Ireland in a good position in terms of global competition, the economy and delivery of services across Northern Ireland.

“I hope that it won’t be long until BT announce the continued roll-out of super fast broadband to the rest of Northern Ireland.”

Northern Ireland has been selected by BT as one of 29 locations across UK for investment in super fast broadband.

The exchange in Belfast should be upgraded later this year and local citizens will then benefit from the availability of much higher internet access speeds.

Chris Clark, CEO BT said: “Continued investment in a world class communications infrastructure in Northern Ireland is essential despite the tough economic conditions in which we now operate. The opportunities are immense – for consumers, businesses, public sector and for Northern Ireland Inc.”

“The Northern Ireland government is doing excellent work in harnessing information and communications technology to drive its Reform Agenda. BT’s investment programme underpins this journey by laying the infrastructure that Northern Ireland needs to build a competitive, sustainable modern economy.”

Notes to Editors:

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