Inishturk connected as National Broadband Plan reaches one of Mayo’s most remote communities
High-speed fibre network now live on Inishturk and supporting next-generation emergency communications
One of Mayo’s most remote communities has taken a major step into the digital future with the launch of the National Broadband Ireland (NBI) network on Inishturk Island.
The milestone, announced by National Broadband Ireland on Monday, June 8, sees homes and businesses on the island connected to the State’s high-speed fibre broadband network as part of the Killadoon deployment area.
More than 1,000 additional premises in the wider area can now also order broadband services through the Government-backed National Broadband Plan.
The development is being hailed not only as a significant boost for connectivity but also as a major advancement in public safety and emergency response capabilities on the island.
Using NBI’s fibre infrastructure, a new Mission Critical Services (MCx) communications platform is now being enabled on Inishturk, providing advanced real-time communications for emergency services and critical infrastructure operators. The system combines instant push-to-talk communications, live video streaming and real-time data sharing within a secure and prioritised network.
Minister for Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht, Dara Calleary, visited Inishturk to mark the occasion and described the project as a significant achievement for rural and island communities.
“Connecting Inishturk Island to high-speed fibre under the National Broadband Plan is a hugely significant milestone,” he said.
“What is particularly encouraging is how this connectivity is now enabling advanced solutions such as Mission Critical Services,” he added. “On an island like Inishturk, where resilience and rapid response are vital, the ability to support real-time voice, data and video communications for emergency and essential services can make a meaningful difference to people’s safety and quality of life.”
Minister for Culture, Communications and Sport Patrick O’Donovan said the project demonstrates the core purpose of the National Broadband Plan.
“The connection of Inishturk is a powerful example of the National Broadband Plan in action, ensuring no community, no matter how remote, is left behind in Ireland’s digital future,” he said.
Mayo County Council Chief Executive Kevin Kelly said the achievement reflects strong cooperation between local and national agencies.
“Connecting an offshore island is no small feat, and it is through close collaboration, local knowledge and a shared commitment to our communities that we are making it possible,” he said.
The council is also supporting the deployment of Mission Critical Services in partnership with the Office of the Government Chief Information Officer, NBI and technology partners.
Danny O’Toole, Broadband Officer with Mayo County Council, said recent weather events had highlighted the importance of resilient communications infrastructure in isolated communities.
“The aftermath of severe weather events like Storm Éowyn highlighted the vulnerability of remote island communities like Inishturk to disruptions in critical communications infrastructure, particularly during medical emergencies,” he said.
“This pioneering initiative represents a significant step forward in strengthening emergency preparedness and resilience.”
National Broadband Ireland confirmed that more than 22,000 homes, farms and businesses across Mayo are now passed by the network and can access high-speed fibre broadband. The county is benefiting from approximately €145 million in Government investment through the National Broadband Plan.
Residents across Mayo can check if their premises are ready to connect by visiting the National Broadband Ireland website and entering their Eircode.