Clwyd MS Darren Millar, who has long championed the need for improved broadband in rural areas, recently met with Openreach Cymru to discuss progress on the rollout of full fibre broadband across North Wales.    

Darren has repeatedly highlighted in the Senedd the fact that some communities in his constituency continue to face unacceptable barriers to economic opportunity, education, healthcare access, and everyday communication, because of poor broadband connectivity. 

He is regularly contacted by rural businesses and families about the issue and was therefore pleased to meet with Openreach Cymru at the Senedd's Y Farchnad recently to discuss their broadband rollout, emphasising the need for it to be delivered as quickly and efficiently as possible. 

Speaking after his meeting, he said:  

"Upgrading digital infrastructure is essential for reducing isolation, supporting local economies, and enabling remote working.

"It is transforming our way of life and the way we do business and the need for households and businesses to have access to next generation broadband and good mobile phone coverage in the twenty first century is paramount. Good connectivity is no longer a luxury.

"The digital economy is growing seven times faster than the rest of the economy combined, and this is largely due to the vast adoption of mobile technologies such as smart phones and tablets. Ensuring people and businesses in all parts of Wales can get good mobile coverage and access to superfast broadband is vital."

He added: 

"Access to reliable broadband should not depend on your postcode. Rural communities deserve the same opportunities and connectivity as anywhere else in the country. They want and deserve fair treatment and I will continue working with Openreach Cymru and others to ensure that they receive it."