Dáil Éireann debate -
Wednesday, 19 Mar 1997

Vol. 476 No. 5

Written Answers - Telecom Éireann Strategic Alliance.

Seamus Brennan

Question:

262 Mr. S. Brennan asked the Minister for Transport, Energy and Communications if his attention has been drawn to the course taken by the Portuguese Government which has decided that its search for a potential international partner for Portugal Telecom will not involve the offer of a strategic stake; and if he has satisfied himself with the deal done in relation to the strategic alliance for Telecom Éireann. [7645/97]

Minister for Transport, Energy and Communications (Mr. Dukes)

The course of action taken by the Portuguese Government is entirely a matter for that Government. The Telecom Éireann strategic alliance was developed in response to the changing market conditions faced by the company and I am satisfied that the deal concluded last December is in the best strategic interest of the company and will contribute enormously to the competitiveness of the telecommunications sector.