Tommy Broughan (Dublin North East, Labour)
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Question 41: To ask the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources when the review of the cost effectiveness and performance of the MANs will be completed and published; when he will decide on the progression of a further phase of the MANs; the amount a further phase of the MANs will cost; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23061/07]

Eamon Ryan (Dublin South, Green Party)
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My Department is continuing to undertake a Value for Money and Policy Review on Phase I of the Metropolitan Area Networks Programme. The review is being carried out in close co-operation with the Department of Finance. This Review, which is expected to be completed by the end of 2007, along with other policy analysis being undertaken at present, will help to inform my decisions on future investment in broadband infrastructure.

Michael D Higgins (Galway West, Labour)
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Question 42: To ask the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources the position regarding the tendering process for the State's emergency call service; when it will be implemented; the amount it will cost; if there will be a period when some people may be left without this service; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23084/07]

Eamon Ryan (Dublin South, Green Party)
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The tender for the provision of the emergency call answering service was launched in September 2007. The closing date for the receipt of applications is the 7th December 2007.

It is not possible to provide details of the cost of the provision of the service at this stage. The tender requires a potential operator to detail the transition arrangements for the provision of the new service. Given the importance of this critical service the management of the transition will be carefully planned.