Northern Ireland broadband link to benefit business

A new transatlantic broadband link between Ulster and the United States will significantly benefit businesses in Northern Ireland, a leading commentator claims.

Plans were recently announced by the Northern Ireland Executive to improve broadband services in the country with a new transatlantic undersea connection.

Hiberna Atlantic has been contracted for the £28 million project to link Ulster with the US via a submarine cable which will significantly enhance telecommunications access.

Tech Watch's David Allen has praised the project, which he believes will highlight the positive benefits which broadband roll-out can bring to business.

"If ever there was a prime example of how better broadband can improve business and therefore help the economy, is has to be the recent addition to the broadband network in Northern Ireland," Mr Allen explained.

"This will mean that local businesses will be able to compete on an international level for the first time," he added.

Prime minister Gordon Brown recently indicated that a high-speed broadband network could prove important for the UK during the current economic climate.