Regional authorities and broadband providers have called on the EU to consider implementing a voucher scheme to help rural communities avail of satellite broadband connectivity.
Part-funded by the EU, the SABER (Satellite Broadband for European Regions) project is made up of a network of public sector agencies and industry partners. Its Irish members consist of the Southern & Eastern Regional Assembly Mid-West Office and Clare-based Slí Nua Development.
Despite efforts by the State to deliver Internet services through the national broadband scheme, there remain pockets of the country where it is not possible to reach. This makes satellite broadband the only connectivity option – though it remains expensive.
Majella O’Brien, EU projects officer, SERA Mid West Office, explained: “Unlike in North America and Australia, Europe has been relatively slow to drive awareness, acceptance and adoption of satellite technology.
“Satellite broadband is a viable option for many rural communities which find themselves in a broadband black spot. The Satellite Broadband Voucher Scheme is one method of increasing its take up and helping rural households and business to bridge the digital divide.”
Patrick Sullivan of Slí Nua Development said: “Businesses that are located in remote and rural areas of Limerick, Clare and Tipperary, for example, are disadvantaged because they are not able to access affordable broadband services; especially at the higher broadband speeds that are necessary for them to exploit the increasing number of ICT applications and services that are now available on the market.”
Slí Nua Development and satellite broadband provider Eutelsat have also drafted a guidance for rural authorities across Europe, explainging broadband technology and deployment models; how to build the business case for investing in broadband support programmes; exploring funding options; dealing with state aid; and procuring satellite solutions.
Led by CSI-Piemonte in Italy, the 24-month SABER project is partially EU-funded and involves 26 partners, 21 regional authorities and ICT public and private organisations supporting regions in broadband deployment representing 13 countries.
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