Irish broadband penetration reaches 1.3m, but growth slows

11 Sep 2009

Ireland has edged up to more than 1.3m broadband subscribers but according to ComReg’s report on the state of Irish telecoms for the second quarter overall, growth is slowing and voice and data traffic revenues have declined.

Overall market revenues declined by more than 4pc in the second quarter to just over €1.01bn.

According to the report, fixed and mobile broadband subscriptions increased by 3.1pc to reach 1,305,035 subscriptions.

However, broadband growth in Q2 2009 was slower than in previous quarters.

The broadband per capita penetration rate, including mobile broadband, reached 29.5pc and 21.1pc, excluding mobile broadband.

Total voice traffic minutes declined by 1.2pc to more than 4.6 billion minutes. Mobile minutes represent the majority (55pc) of these minutes.

Mobile phone penetration per capita, including mobile broadband, was 117pc and 109pc, excluding mobile broadband.

According to the report, just over two-thirds of Irish homes now have a broadband connection. Additionally, 66.9pc of residential and 70.1pc of non-residential users now connect to speeds of up to 9.99Mbps.

“In two years, we have doubled our broadband subscriptions, with higher speeds and lower costs now available,” the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources, Eamon Ryan TD, said.

“Broadband policy, focused on increased investment and competition in the market, is delivering results. Over two-thirds of Irish homes have a broadband connection.

“While the majority of homes can now connect, the National Broadband Scheme is addressing those that cannot. Speeds are also improving, with almost 70pc of customers now availing of faster broadband,” Ryan explained.

He said Government policy is progressing initiatives to drive competition, increase quality, and keep prices in check. “Soon the first batch of our post-primary schools will receive 100Mbps connectivity.

“Real action and targeted investment will continue our progress in the years ahead,” Ryan said.

Photo: Ireland broadband growth in Q2 2009 was slower than in previous quarters.

By John Kennedy

John Kennedy is a journalist who served as editor of Silicon Republic for 17 years

editorial@siliconrepublic.com