McGuigan calls for broadband task force

At a recent meeting the Dunloy Councillor suggested that Council invite DETI officials and telecommunications experts to a meeting to discuss how availability of broadband can be increased as well as improving broadband speeds in rural areas.

Cllr. McGuigan said: “There are many places in this Borough from the Glens to Greysteel where broadband availability falls far short of what is acceptable in 2015.

“I know that a programme is underway where a number of the green boxes have been upgraded to provide customers with fibre optic high speed internet. This is to be welcomed, but the investment by DETI needs to be greater and cover a much wider geographical area.

“The Causeway Coast and Glens is a mainly rural area with many local indigenous businesses. Individuals working from home and small medium enterprises depend on high speed, quality internet provision to ensure their business can compete and survive in a competitive marketplace.

“I have asked the Council to provide an up to date profile of the area and to invite officials to a meeting to develop a strategy and action plan for greater investment in broadband provision in this Council area. This will ultimately support economic development for this district and help stimulate economic growth for the benefit of all our citizens.”