THERE HAS BEEN “massive growth” on both fixed and mobile networks in Ireland this decade, according to mobile operator Eir.

Eir said fixed online traffic has more than doubled since 2019, while mobile data traffic has increased seven times over due to the popularity of video sharing and other online apps.

A new report from the company shows that due to an “unprecedented surge” in data usage, Ireland is now one of the leading countries in Europe for digital services use for daily life. 

It described Ireland as having ‘always-on’ digital habits, which it says is evident from the increase of data usage at large social gatherings. For example, data usage at Electric Picnic on Eir’s mobile network has multiplied by six since 2022.

The average household usage of high speed fibre has risen by 61% in five years. Eir put this down to the rollout of 1GB fibre and the popularity of “data-hungry apps” and services.

Kildare has the highest household data usage at 7,800 GB per household, while Sligo has the lowest at 5,800 GB per household.

The company said that data traffic volumes will continue to grow at a high rate for the remainder of the decade.

Speaking at the launch of the report Jack Chambers, Minister for Digitalisation, said: “I welcome the publication of this insightful research which underscores how Irish homes, businesses and communities are embracing the digital revolution.

“As Minister with responsibility for infrastructure development and digitalisation, I understand digital infrastructure is the backbone for so much innovation, connectivity, and growth in our economy and will play a pivotal role in honing Ireland’s competitive business environment in the coming period.”