Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 23 October 2018
522. Deputy Timmy Dooley asked the Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment if he will conduct a review of the relationship between his Department, a person (details supplied) and a company in the context of the extension of a concession agreement for the metropolitan area networks; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [43351/18]
View answer524. Deputy Timmy Dooley asked the Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment if he will conduct a review of the relationship between a person (details supplied) and his Department on issues not related to the national broadband plan; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [43353/18]
View answerI propose to take Questions Nos. 522 and 524 together.
My Department entered into two Concession Agreements with enet Ltd., a privately owned company in 2004 and 2009 respectively, following two separate public procurement processes. These agreements set out the terms under which enet is required to manage, operate and maintain the Metropolitan Area Networks. In March, 2017, following detailed consideration of available options by the Department, the Concession Agreements were extended to 2030, i.e. Concession Agreement I was extended by 10 years and Concession Agreement II by 6 years.
The Concession Agreements each provide for an option to extend the term of the agreements for up to a maximum period of 10 years. I am informed that the decision to extend the agreements is in compliance with EU and national procurement regulations and was informed by legal advice and advice from external consultants.
