Unavailability of broadband in parts of West Clare “is a clear case of discrimination against people in rural Ireland”, one resident has claimed.
Independent councillor, Christy Curtin hit out at the second class treatment to the people of West Clare when it comes to the provision of broadband at Wednesday’s meeting of the West Clare Municipal District.
Cllr Curtin tabled a motion asking that “Eir be requested to prioritise the extension of the broadband infrastructure to cover the cluster of houses in Lisroe, Kilmaley”. Meeting administrator, John Corry in his reply gave assurance that the local authority would write to the telecommunications company “to highlight the prioritisation”.
Curtin estimated there was 38 houses in a 2 mile region affected. “It is a clear case of discrimination against people in rural Ireland. They are being deprived of an essential service,” he declared. Fianna Fáil’s PJ Kelly seconded the motion while Fine Gael’s Gabriel Keating struggled to comprehend the criteria being used by Eir. “It is a problem everywhere,” Cllr Richard Nagle stated.
“I have the impression that Eir we’re cherry picking,” Cllr Curtin said in response to Cllr Keating. Confirmation was provided from Corry that the MD would liaise with the Council’s broadband officer, Urban McMahon.
