There is one major project approved under Priority 2 – the National Broadband Scheme which is being delivered through the Department of Communications, Energy and Natural Resources.

The scheme aims to ensure that guaranteed, quality broadband is available to all and that citizens and businesses have the requisite tools to participate fully in, and maximise the benefits of, a digitally enabled economy and society. The National Broadband Scheme is a targeted State led investment providing broadband infrastructure in those areas that will not be covered by the commercial sector. It is envisioned that the number of Irish towns & villages with high-speed next generation will have increased to 1,145 (from 562) by the end of the programming period. This scheme is central to the development of new opportunities for jobs, growth and social inclusion in the BMW region.