New Approach to Telecommunications

The province is opening up its telecommunications business to competition for the first time. It's inviting proposals for local telephone, long distance, cellular and data services.

"We spend $10 million dollars a year on our telecommunications needs," says Ron Russell, Minister of Transportation and Public Works. "By inviting bids on separate contracts, we'll seek the best service at the best possible price for taxpayers. This will also present significant opportunities for other Nova Scotian companies."

Most of these services are now provided by Aliant Telecom under contracts that expire by February 2003. Between now and then the province will seek competitive bids while implementing its new telecommunications strategy.

"Bidders can apply to provide one of the four services, or can submit a proposal on a bundle of services," said Mr. Russell. "We're seeking telecommunications services that meet very specific technology and service level standards."

The request for proposals was released following extensive consultation with potential suppliers in the telecommunications industry. Suppliers were asked to provide input on a draft request for proposals that was circulated for comment this past spring. There was also a comprehensive review within government to make sure the document captured the precise business needs of various departments and agencies.

The closing date for the request for proposals is Aug. 8. The province expects to award contracts by early to mid-September. The 145-page tender document and appendices can be reviewed on the procurement Web site at www.gov.ns.ca/finance/tour/.