Poll: Do you think the government is wrong to favour fibre for the National Broadband Plan?

Some suggest wireless services would be a better option for rural internet users.

By Conor McMahon Deputy editor, Fora

AS THE TROUBLED National Broadband Plan hangs in the balance, some have questioned whether the project is already doomed because of its dependence on fibre-optic cabling.

Speaking to the Sunday Business Post, Cignal boss Colin Cunningham suggested the government should favour wireless and 5G technology over the long-delayed plan to bring speedy broadband to rural areas using fibre-based infrastructure.

Cunningham’s views were echoed in a recent Irish Times opinion piece by Liam Young, the ex-CEO of directory services firm Conduit, who said the mobile network and 5G would provide the quickest and cheapest option for rural internet users who have already waited years to be hooked up.

However, fibre is often considered a more reliable, speedier solution, which gives legs to the government’s determination to stick with the technology so rural homes and businesses get the best service.

With that in mind, we’re asking Fora readers this week: Do you think the government is wrong to favour fibre broadband for the National Broadband Plan?