Write a commentSouth Down MP Chris Hazzard has expressed serious concerns with the Department for the Economy’s (DfE) proposed investment in rural broadband under Project Stratum.
Mr Hazzard said “The provision of broadband in rural communities like South Down is fundamental to addressing regional imbalances and promoting equality with urban areas.
“Previously South Down has been poorly served by the roll-out of broadband. This has had a damaging impact on local businesses, on education, health and other key public services in rural communities.
Mr Hazzard pointed out that accessibility to good broadband is key to attracting investment, jobs and services to rural areas like South Down.
“There is a need to provide a level playing field to people living and working in our rural communities.
“It is absolutely essential that rural areas which have been left behind to date are prioritised in future public investment programmes.
The South Down representative says priority should be given to areas with weakest broadband, the plans should be fully rural proofed, the budget must be adequate, the investment should include social clauses, stakeholders must be properly consulted, and regional imbalances should be factored into the Department's assessment of value for money.
Mr Hazzard is part of a Sinn Féin delegation meeting the Department in the near future to discuss their concerns.
