The first broadband network in the State was uveiled today in Co Mayo. The project will cost a total of €3.75 million by the time it is complete in July.
The Mayo rollout is part of the €65 million project in 19 towns nationwide, 90 per cent of which is funded by the Government.
Nationally, towns from Co Donegal to Co Cork, will be connected to the backbone broadband network running through the State.
Once the national rollout is completed next year, it will provide cheap always-on access to the Internet.
Speaking at the launch in Mayo, Minister for Communications, Mr Dermot Ahern, said the network would ensure that plans for expansion and development of the area could press ahead.
The new Metropolitan Area Network will provide more than 60 drop points to premises in Ballina, and a further 15 in the Kiltimagh area.