High Speed Broadband Trials To Begin In The Rural North

The funding from the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Investment's (DETI) £1.9million Broadband Fund has been awarded to London-based Avanti Communications Group plc, which specialises in the deployment and operation of satellite and mobile broadband networks.

For a very small number of broadband customers in the North, mostly in rural areas, satellite is used to deliver access to broadband services. DETI's funding will now allow Avanti to carry out technology trials to examine how the existing satellite infrastructure can be used help deliver third generation (3G) communications, voice and data, into such remote regions.

Announcing the funding, Ms Foster said: "The Avanti technology trials, which will be carried out in Ballintoy in County Antrim and Ballinamallard in County Fermanagh, are strategically very important. They carry significant potential for the emergence of commercial services that can offer reliable, low-cost voice and mobile data services into remote areas of Northern Ireland.

"The Avanti project also has the potential to set new precedents for Northern Ireland as the first region to bridge the digital divide and bring 100% mobile and voice coverage to rural locations."

The Minister said that she was committed to ensuring that the North receives quality and affordable broadband connectivity.

She said: "I am determined that the £1.9million Broadband Fund will be used to build on our achievement as the first region in Europe able to offer 100% broadband coverage. In addition, we must ensure that we get the best possible, value for money, solutions for widespread deployment of next generation broadband services.

"Today's funding announcement demonstrates the important role that government plays in advancing a modern communications infrastructure. I now look to Avanti to build upon its proven track record in delivering broadband services."