Over 5,000 Mayo properties now connected to National Broadband Ireland network

NBI has confirmed that 5,016 locations in Mayo are now live on its network, with 18,749 homes and businesses across the county able to pre-order or order reliable, high-speed broadband.

The rollout is part of the Government’s National Broadband Plan, which is targeting areas where commercial operators have no plans to deliver high-speed services. In Mayo, the State’s Intervention Area includes 38,000 premises, all of which are due to receive minimum broadband speeds of 500 megabits per second under the plan.

Co. Mayo is set to benefit from €145 million in Government investment under the National Broadband Plan, described as the biggest investment in rural Ireland since rural electrification.

READ MORE: Planning granted for major ESB power line upgrade in Mayo

As Ireland transitions away from legacy copper networks, NBI said its fibre-to-the-home network will help future-proof communities by supporting remote working, education, healthcare access and local enterprise.

TJ Malone, Chief Executive Officer of National Broadband Ireland, said the milestone marked significant progress for the county.

“We are delighted to announce that over 5,000 Mayo homes, businesses and farms are now connected to the NBI network. Those connected are experiencing the life-changing benefits of high-speed fibre broadband with minimum speeds of 500 megabits per second,” he said.

“With the national switch-off of the copper network approaching, NBI’s fibre network will ensure communities across Mayo are prepared for the future by supporting remote working, education, healthcare access and local enterprise while providing the reliability needed for everyday living.”

READ MORE: People in Mayo to benefit from changes to housing loans

Nationally, NBI has now passed more than 451,000 homes, farms and businesses in rural Ireland, with over 165,000 connected.

The main rollout of the network is due to conclude by the end of this year, with remaining homes and businesses expected to be able to place orders in the coming months.

As fibre networks expand nationwide, older copper telephone and broadband infrastructure will begin to be decommissioned. The European Commission has proposed 2030 as the latest date for switching off legacy copper networks.

Residents and businesses in Mayo are being encouraged to visit nbi.ie, check their Eircode to confirm eligibility, view available retail providers and register for updates as works progress in their area.