ICT Ireland, the recently established IBEC association which represents companies in the technology sector has warned that continuing delays in the allocation of 3G mobile phone licences could seriously compromise Ireland's international reputation and competitiveness.
Ireland has already missed the deadline of June 1st, 2001, the date originally targeted by the Office of the Director for Telecommunication Regulation for the issuing of 3G licences in Ireland.
The director of ICT Ireland, Mr Brendan Butler, said it was totally unacceptable that the tender process in Ireland had not yet begun.
Of the EU's 15 memberstates, only Ireland and Luxembourg have yet to begin the licence allocation process.
"As well as missing the regulator's self-imposed deadline, we are now likely to miss the EU's deadline of January 1st, 2002," he said.
According to Mr Butler while some doubts have emerged regarding the eventual effectiveness of 3G technology both the Government and industry is fully aware, that the effective, timely and successful deployment of 3G infrastructure and services is a prerequisite for Ireland's continued standing in today's global economy.
