Press Release

Launch of Wireless City Service

Monday 12th November 2007

Derry City Council’s Wireless City Service, which provides free Internet access to anyone with a wireless enabled device such as a laptop or personal digital assistant (PDA), is to be launched by the Mayor on Tuesday, November 13, at the Guildhall. This is the first service of its kind in Ireland and one of the first in the UK.

In 2004 the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Investment designated Derry as the location for the “Broadband Flagship Project for Northern Ireland”. This flagship project demonstrates the development of leading - edge wireless services and applications in e-government, e-learning and e-tourism, and is part financed by the European Regional Development Fund under the Building Sustainable Prosperity Programme.

The launch event will include presentations by expert practitioners and profile best practice examples of wireless networks, explore potential future uses of the network and examine the creation of a sustainable business model for wireless networks.

The Mayor, Alderman Drew Thompson welcoming the launch of the city’s wireless service said that the network would help to further raise the profile of the city’s ability to work with ‘cutting edge’ technology.

"Once again the city is at the forefront of technology provision and I am delighted that free Internet access will be widely available. This is another admirable example of evolution and innovation, from historic walled city to a modern wireless enabled city utilising state of the art technology.”

Dermot Harrigan, Enterprise Officer with Derry City Council said he believed the provision of a wireless service to the city was a major coup for the city and region. “This is the first service of its kind in Ireland and one of the first in the UK and certainly puts the city on the map as a good location to do business. Not only will it enhance the city’s business reputation but it will ensure that the city has a more attractive proposition for potential foreign direct investment."

Dave Easton, Managing Director with Evolution Systems said: “The launch of the Derry Wireless City is a milestone in the development of the city and the delivery of services to citizens, public employees and visitors. While most European cities are only now starting to compile tenders for a Wireless City, Derry has already created a platform to build a highly advanced communications network, which will deliver economic development benefits for many years to come.”

"In addition, the network creates new conveniences and business opportunities for its residents, businesses and students with city centre Internet access,” said Bo Nilsson, Managing Director of Europe, Middle East and Africa for Tropos Networks. “We are pleased to be part of one of the first cities in Europe to be wireless enabled.”

Colm McColgan from ERNACT said "the wireless network service will be of particular advantage to businesses across the city, particularly as content providers adapt their services for mobile workers". He commented: "The provision of this service will help bridge the digital divide and bolster the knowledge economy and assist us in ensuring everyone can experience the benefits of the internet."

Ends

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