Telecoms firm wins multi-million euro broadband contract

Telecoms firm 3 has won a multi-million euro contract to deliver broadband to IT blackspots across rural Ireland.

Communications Minister Eamon Ryan and 3 executives are expected to sign the six-year deal next month when further details will be announced.

The firm beat off competition from BT Ireland Ltd, Eircom Ltd and the IFA/Motorola Consortium to win the Government tender.

The National Broadband Scheme aims to deliver broadband services to consumers and businesses in the remaining 10% of the country not yet covered.

3 is owned by Hutchison Whampoa, one of Hong Kong’s biggest global telecoms companies.

The firm was awarded a mobile phone licence in Ireland in June 2002.

Nationwide broadband provision is a major commitment of the Programme for Government agreed by the Coalition parties.

Communications Minister Eamon Ryan said one of his priorities in office is to deliver competitive, affordable and innovative broadband services to all consumers and businesses.