Munster Express Online

Waterford Fianna Fáil TD Brendan Kenneally believes the introduction of broadband to rural areas has moved a step closer with news that the EU Commission has approved the Government’s National Broadband Scheme

According to Kenneally, who is a member of the Dáil committee on Communications, Energy and Natural Resources, the EU Commission has formally notified the government on their approval to the scheme to ensure broadband access in rural areas.

Kenneally said: “The prompt response of the Commission means that we can now move ahead and select a preferred bidder for the new services. The roll out of broadband is vital in rural areas. Usage of the internet is growing in homes, but it is also essential for local business and enterprises that have increasing reliance on the internet. If we are to encourage investment and growth of business locally, we must be able to ensure a reliable broadband service.”

BT, Eircom, Hutchinson 3G and IFA Motorola are four companies who have qualified to enter the next stage of the procurement process.

Kenneally continued: “These companies will take part in the competitive dialogue procurement process and are due to respond next month. All candidates will then present their proposed solutions to meet the requirements of the National Broadband Scheme in January. It is hoped that a preferred bidder will be selected and appointed in June 2008.”

“This process will help to ensure that the best possible service is procured to roll out the National Broadband Scheme and that the broadband service provided to rural areas is second to none. Internet users in rural areas, both domestic and business deserve no less and the EU Commission approval helps to move the process on.”