The provision of connectivity to 5 Remote Work Broadband Connection Point

Tender description

The Broadband Connection Points (BCP) project is an initiative of the Department of Rural and Community Development (DRCD) and the Department of the Environment, Climate and Communications (DECC). BCPs are publicly accessible premises that will make onsite internet access available to the public. BCPs are typically located in rural and isolated areas within the National Broadband Plan (NBP) state intervention area. BCPs in the NBP state intervention area are provided with a high-speed broadband connection by National Broadband Ireland (NBI) as part of that company’s contract, managed by DECC, for the delivery of the NBP. ‘Remote Work BCPs’ are publicly accessible sites that are not within the NBP state intervention area, but are close to areas and premises within the intervention area. These sites will provide, among other onsite services, remote working facilities to those that cannot currently avail of high-speed broadband at home. Onsite internet will be via WiFi access points (provided and managed by extant RSP). Users must be verified (PIN sent to mobile device) before accessing the onsite WiFi via a guest portal. The successful tenderer will establish, and maintain for three (3) years, a high-speed broadband connection – minimum of 150mbps download / 30mbps upload – to five (5) sites and will act as the Wholesale Service Provider (WSP) for the five (5) sites. This service must be available on a 24/7 basis. It is understood that the only viable option at each site is to establish a wireless connection (radio). Notwithstanding this, tenderers should propose any and all technical solutions that may provide the minimum service requested (150/30).