AQW 52923/22-27

Ms Claire Sugden
Independent
East Londonderry

Tabled Date: 24/09/2026
Answered On Date: 07/10/2026
Priority Written: No

Question:
To ask the Minister for the Economy to detail any support that is available to residents of isolated rural properties who face significant costs to connect to nearby full-fibre broadband infrastructure.

Answer:

Project Gigabit is the primary mechanism through which my Department is supporting the extension of gigabit-capable broadband to eligible rural premises that would not otherwise be served commercially. Eligibility is determined in accordance with the Gigabit Infrastructure Subsidy Scheme and is subject to available funding and value for money considerations.

For premises currently outside the scope of Project Gigabit, I am working to explore sources of further funding from the British Government. In the meantime, residents may wish to explore providers' self-funded connection options or alternative technologies such as 5G or satellite.

Additionally, those unable to access a decent broadband service may also be eligible for support under the broadband Universal Service Obligation, which can provide support for a basic broadband service and which is provided by BT here.