THOUSANDS more Clare homes to get high-speed broadband by end of 2026
Homes and businesses in Miltown Malbay, Lisdoonvarna and Behagh are on track to receive high-speed broadband connections by the end of 2026 under the National Broadband Plan, according to information provided to Clare Fine Gael TD Joe Cooney by Minister for Culture, Communications and Sport Patrick O’Donovan.
Deputy Cooney sought an update from the Minister through a Parliamentary Question on the status of the National Broadband Plan rollout in County Clare, with particular focus on remaining rural and coastal premises due to be connected during the second half of 2026.
In his reply, Minister O’Donovan confirmed that network construction is progressing in the Miltown Malbay deployment area, which includes 2,059 premises and is expected to be connected between by the end of June.
Works are also ongoing in the Lisdoonvarna and Behagh (located between New Quay and Bellharbour) deployment areas, covering a combined total of more than 2,850 premises, with anticipated connection dates between October and December.
Deputy Cooney said the update provides reassurance for many communities across rural Clare that have been waiting for reliable broadband infrastructure.
“Access to high-speed broadband is absolutely essential for rural communities, businesses, students, farmers and people working remotely. Many parts of Clare have waited far too long for reliable connectivity and it is important that these timelines are met,” Deputy Cooney said.
The Minister also confirmed that more than 15,890 premises in Clare have already been passed by high-speed fibre infrastructure, while 18,883 premises are now available to order or pre-order broadband services. More than 6,255 premises have already been connected under the scheme.
Areas currently available to order or pre-order broadband include Corofin, Feakle, Kilkishen, Kilrush, Labasheeda, Ogonnelloe, Rahey Cross and Tiermaclane.
Deputy Cooney said he raised concerns about potential delays and sought assurances that the remaining rollout would stay on schedule.
“The Minister has confirmed that the National Broadband Plan is currently expected to be delivered on time and under budget, with the main infrastructure build scheduled for completion by the end of 2026. That is welcome news, but it is important that progress continues and that no community is left behind,” he said
“I will continue to engage with the Minister and National Broadband Ireland to ensure homes and businesses across Clare receive the broadband connectivity they have been promised.”
Further rollout details are available on the National Broadband Ireland website.
