SSE pulls out of National Broadband Plan tendering bid
There are reports tonight that SSE has pulled out of the tendering process for the National Broadband Plan.
SSE is reportedly withdrawing from the consortium with eNet who were the last remaining bidders for the tender after Eir withdrew from the process.
Fianna Fáil’s Communications Spokesperson Timmy Dooley TD claims the process has to date been so convoluted and bureaucratic, that every major commercial player has not felt comfortable continuing.
“The viability of the National Broadband Plan is now under threat to such an extent that it is conceivable that no contract will be signed this side of 2020," he said.
"With ESB, Vodafone, Eir and now SSE all out, what hope is there for the 520,000 households in isolated and rural communities that they will see their homes and businesses connected in the next six to eight years?," asked Mr Dooley.
“One has to question why e-Net has not to date been announced as the preferred bidder by the Department? They have been the sole remaining bidder since the spring?
“Minister Naughten must confirm when he became aware of SSE's decision, and what his plans are into the future?" he said.
Labour spokesperson on Communications Seán Sherlock TD also slammed the Government's response to the National Broadband Plan.
Deputy Sherlock said: "We've known since February that there is only one bidder left in this project. Public trust is shot to pieces and the broadband plan is in shambles, and citizens will bear the brunt of this latest failure.
"The Minister now has serious questions to answer. We’ve had a litany of withdrawals from the process on his watch.
"The next moves from Government on this will be critical," he said.
