The rollout of broadband in Ireland’s regions, until now ignored by telecoms operators, has resulted in data backup provider keepITsafe securing business with a Longford-based IT firm.
After a number of failed attempts at bringing broadband to rural Ireland, including the problematic Group Broadband Scheme, the National Broadband Scheme (NBS) will ensure Ireland achieves a 100pc broadband penetration.
A €223m contract was awarded to mobile operator 3 in January to implement the NBS, and it is envisaged that by 2010 anyone who wants to will be able to access a broadband service.
Clear Technology, a Longford tech company focused on providing IT services to SMEs, is set to benefit greatly from the much awaited broadband service for the midlands and north-west region.
The company has recently partnered with keepITsafe, which will allow Clear Technology to offer its customers online backup as a means of safeguarding their critical business data.
“Many companies will benefit from the NBS over the coming years,” said Fraser Macleod, director, Clear Technology.
“The initiative is a step in the right direction for Government to invest in rural Ireland. With the growth in online backup as a fully managed service, we are also positioned quite favourably to capitalise on this growth market,” Macleod added.
Ireland currently has over 1.2 million subscribers to broadband. The NBS will provide the remaining 10pc of the population, or approximately 33pc of the area of the country, with broadband services.
KeepITsafe’s online backup solution is currently being used by over 1,000 customers and 100 partners on the island. This is set to increase significantly throughout 2009.
“Rural Ireland is an opportunity for us. With broadband and internet access, our backup solution is a viable and cost-effective alternative to many businesses in these areas,” said Eoin Blacklock, managing director, keepITsafe.
By John Kennedy
Pictured: Eoin Blacklock, managing director, keepITsafe
