The Tribune

By DENISE MAYCOCK

Tribune Freeport

Reporter

dmaycock@tribunemedia.net

The Bahamas’ second mobile operator yesterday boasted that it was moving at “record” pace to roll-out its network, having already built more than 90 per cent of its planned cellular towers in Grand Bahama.

Damian Blackburn, NewCo2015’s chief executive, expressed confidence that it would meet the October 1, 2016, deadline for delivering services to 80 per cent of Grand Bahama’s populatiotion, with 20 of its 22 planned sites already constructed.

Mr Blackburn, during a visit to Grand Bahama, said NewCo2015 needed to build 73 cellular sites - 51 in New Providence, and 22 on Grand Bahama - to meet the first service delivery targets set by the Government. Some 99 per cent of New Providence residents must enjoy coverage by the same October 1 date.

“We have to do it in record time, and I am proud to say that we are very much on our way to doing so,” Mr Blackburn said.

“From the date of license issued on July 1, we fully completed our first site within 25 days; an impressive result due to a huge team effort and, I believe, a world record.”

Acknowledging the aggressive roll-out schedule, Mr Blackburn said more than 100 persons had been hired to ready NewCo 2015’s network and systems for activation.

Crews have been building cell sites and erecting towers and fibre splicers, while network management teams have been carrying out key connectivity responsibilities. Software teams have been preparing the field and back-end systems, while an administrative team is also in place.

“We look forward to bringing choice, value, and service to the people of the Bahamas. We are here at an actual site today so you can see for yourself that we are delivering on the commitment,” Mr Blackburn said.

“We are relying on the continued support of all of the utility companies and government agencies as we work in partnership together to continue to deliver in the face of our tight schedule, not only here on Grand Bahama, but also in New Providence.

“With this continued support I can affirm that progress is on track to complete all the sites by the deadline.”

Mr Blackburn said NewCo2015’s communications network was being built upon the fibre optic backbone laid by Cable Bahamas over the past 21 years.

“We know that this, combined with our new network, will help make Freeport an even better place for investment, significantly enhancing the economy and business development opportunities for this city and the island of Grand Bahama,” Mr Blackburn added.

“We know the struggle of not having a better option for mobile communications, but that will soon be over.”

NewCo is 48.25 per cent owned by Cable Bahamas, and 51.75 per cent owned by HoldingCo, an entity currently owned by the Government.

Mr Blackburn thanked the Grand Bahama Port Authority and Grand Bahama Development Company for their assistance and support, and the Grand Bahama Power Company for its role in providing electricity to their sites.