Open eir, the wholesale broadband subsidiary of telecom company eir, said today it has passed 1.5 million homes and businesses with its fibre-to-the-home (FTTH) broadband network.
The company said the "significant milestone" means that more than 4 million people across Ireland can access ultrafast full fibre connectivity.
This cements Ireland's status as one of Europe's most digitally connected nations, it said.
Open eir said that over 54,000 kilometres of fibre has now been laid by the company, linking urban centres, villages and remote communities.
Backed by eir's €2 billion multiyear investment in fibre and 5G, it said the rollout ensures the country's networks keep pace with the evolving needs of citizens, businesses and public services.
"When open eir completes its fibre rollout, the largest broadband build ever undertaken in Ireland, alongside National Broadband Ireland’s delivery to remaining rural areas, Ireland will achieve truly ubiquitous fibre connectivity," Open eir said.
"This nationwide infrastructure is a cornerstone of economic competitiveness, regional development and public service delivery, ensuring every community can participate fully in the digital economy," it added.
Oliver Loomes, the CEO of eir, said that passing 1.5 million homes and businesses with full fibre is a hugely significant moment for eir and reflects years of sustained investment in Ireland’s digital future.
"This network is already transforming how people work, learn and do business, providing the reliability, speed and resilience that modern life demands," the CEO said.
"Crucially, this milestone is a testament to the dedication and skill of our teams across the country, who have delivered one of the most ambitious fibre builds in Europe. Their commitment has created lasting infrastructure that will serve Ireland’s communities and economy for decades to come," he added.
Patrick O'Donovan, Minister for Culture, Communications and Sport, said the milestone is a clear sign of the progress we are making in building a truly connected country.
"Passing 1.5 million homes and businesses with full fibre means more people, in every part of Ireland, can access fast, reliable connectivity that is now essential for work, education and daily life," the Minister said.
"Crucially this is about more than speed, it’s about opportunity. It supports regional development, enables remote working, and ensures our communities can compete and thrive," he added.
