IRELAND IS BEING left behind in terms of broadband roll-out and internet development, according to Google’s executive chairman Eric Schmidt.

Speaking in Dublin yesterday, the Examiner reports that Schmidt says there is huge potential for Ireland to make its businesses more global by improving its internet connectivity.

Ireland’s delays in rolling out broadband across the country have been much lamented. Ireland’s broadband take-up (58 per cent last year) is slightly below the EU average of 61 per cent and fixed broadband take-up last year reached just 23 per cent, according to EU data. However, overall household internet take-up is just above the EU average, at 72 per cent.

Under the EU’s Digital Agenda for Europe, the government has committed to providing universal broadband by 2013.

Schmidt’s message to the Irish government yesterday was simply: “more broadband”.

But how do you feel about the internet connection you use most often? Does it work well, or are you in a black spot?

Making a difference

A mix of advertising and supporting contributions helps keep paywalls away from valuable information like this article. Over 5,000 readers like you have already stepped up and support us with a monthly payment or a once-off donation.

For the price of one cup of coffee each week you can make sure we can keep reliable, meaningful news open to everyone regardless of their ability to pay.

Support us Learn More