Eamon Ryan T.D., Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources, today welcomed the selection of four candidates to enter the next phase of the procurement process for the National Broadband Scheme.
The four Candidates, in alphabetical order, are
- BT Communications Ireland Ltd Consortium
- Eircom Ltd
- Hutchinson 3G Ireland Ltd and
- IFA/Motorola Consortium.
They have, subject to the receipt of certain undertakings, been invited to participate in the next stage of the National Broadband Scheme procurement process.
The pre-qualified candidates will be invited to present their proposed solutions to meet the Department of Communications, Energy and Natural Resources requirements for the delivery of broadband to the unserved areas of the country. It is anticipated that a preferred provider will be selected early in 2008.
The National Broadband Scheme aims to deliver broadband services to consumers and businesses located within those parts of the country that have no form of broadband available at the moment. It is estimated that about 10% of the country remains without such service. When the scheme is fully rolled out it will ensure that all reasonable requests for broadband in these National Broadband Scheme target areas are met.
Of the announcement Minister Ryan said, “I am very pleased to begin the next phase in the roll-out of broadband throughout the country. The Programme for Government was clear that a world-class telecommunications sector is critical to our continued economic and social prosperity. Broadband provision throughout the country is at the heart of this plan.
This next stage ensures that the remaining 10% of the country can have access to the services they require.
The Government is committed to bringing competitive, affordable and innovative broadband services to all consumers. We are also mindful of the necessity to offer choice of service provider and product choice to Irish consumers and business”.
Note for Editors
The National Broadband Scheme competition is being undertaken pursuant to the European Communities (Award of Public Authorities’ Contracts) Regulations 2006 using the competitive dialogue procurement process. Please see Annex for an overview of the competitive dialogue procedure
ENDS
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