Telecommunications Services.

Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 23 March 2004

Tuesday, 23 March 2004

Questions (281)

Enda Kenny

Question:

281 Mr. Kenny asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources his views on whether, in respect of his commitment to open up access to broadband for all, that the inclusion of a former Eircom subsidiary (details supplied) in a consortium can be interpreted as an appeasement of a major telecommunications operator, and at the same time provide an additional blocked competition in the market place; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8396/04]

Written answers

Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources (Mr. D. Ahern)

Arrangements for the marketing, management, operation and maintenance of the metropolitan area networks will be consistent with the Government's strategy of providing broadband infrastructure on an open access and carrier neutral basis. It is intended that this open access principle will be enshrined in a code of practice for the use of the metropolitan area networks thus ensuring that access to the infrastructure is administered on fair, transparent and non-discriminatory terms to all interested parties. The competition for the appointment of the management services entity is a public procurement process. I have, and have had, no role in the tendering process.