Michael Creed (Cork North West, Fine Gael)
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Question 192: To ask the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources when contracts will be signed under the national broadband scheme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [34272/08]

Eamon Ryan (Dublin South, Green Party)
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My Department has reached the evaluation stage of the National Broadband Scheme (NBS) procurement process. The closing date for receipt of tenders was 6 October 2008 and two bids were received from Eircom Ltd and Hutchinson 3G Ireland Ltd. The evaluation of the bids is scheduled for completion on 31 October 2008 and the contract is expected to be signed next month. Subject to agreement with the chosen service provider, rollout of services is expected to begin shortly thereafter.