Northern Ireland 'set for superfast broadband roll-out in 2012'

Northern Ireland's enterprise minister has welcomed the news that high-speed internet access could be up and running for almost nine out of ten households in the country by next year, news which could mean more people using VoIP services.

Arlene Foster said the decision by communications firm BT to roll-out superfast broadband represents a "significant investment" in the region.

The project will install fibre-optic technology into more than 780 cabinets and could create more than 60 jobs.

Ms Foster said that improving telecoms in the country is a key part of government plans to provide a modern and efficient network.

"Having one of the best telecommunications infrastructure in Europe will help to attract a more diverse range of high growth, high value companies to Northern Ireland and enhance local companies' potential to grow their export business."

International Telecommunication Union secretary-general Dr Hamadoun Toure remarked that politicians around the world need to work with the private sector to ensure the roll-out of fibre broadband is speeded up.