Mr. Peter McCarthy:

Just to give a bit more information. Analysys Mason is a London-based consultancy. The DCCAE commissioned them to review whether Enet is operating the MANs in compliance with its obligations under the code of practice in the MANs concession agreements to provide open access to the MANs on an equality of treatment, non-discriminatory and transparent basis. This report represents the results of the review. It provides their opinion on the changes that should be made to the way Enet operates the MANs to: improve the transparency of pricing; ensure non-discrimination between ETNL and other Internet service providers; increase separation from ETNL; and encourage further take-up on the MANs.

Enet co-operated with Analysys Mason on their review. This involved site visits by their team to our Limerick headquarters, interviews with our staff and the sharing of records and data with them.

The independent report sets out four possible options regarding optimal structure of operation for the MANs. After thorough review, their chosen option recommends "improved processes, procedures and checks." For the avoidance of doubt, the report states, at 2.5.5 overall conclusion, "this report shows a range of areas in which enet should improve its adherence to the Code of Practice". This is stating that Enet is adhering to the code of practice, while suggesting improvements can be made in their opinion. The 13 recommendations are internal and procedural in nature, and are actually helpful to us as a business trying to continually perfect our delivery of service.

After nearly 15 years operating the assets, it is right and proper that the code of practice and our procedures be reviewed so as to ensure they are still relevant for current market conditions and fit-for-purpose going forward. The focus of the recommendations is on the improved processes, procedures and checks and relate to physical access, the cost of connection and pricing, and communication and take-up.

We have engaged with the DCCAE in addressing each individual recommendation, and these actions have been implemented or are being implemented in our business currently. We are always striving to be the best we can be. It is beneficial for the consultants from outside the business to come in and undertake a review, and give their views on what is good, what needs improvement and what needs to change. In keeping with best practice, we are working in partnership with Government to make the economic recovery sustainable in parts of the country previously left behind. Thank you, Mr. Chairman.