Part 2Networks, services and the radio spectrum

Chapter 1Electronic communications networks and services

Grants for networks and services in Northern Ireland

I1I2149Grants by Department of Enterprise, Trade and Investment

1

The Department of Enterprise, Trade and Investment may, in accordance with this section, make payments to persons engaged in, or in commercial activities connected with—

a

the provision of electronic communications networks and electronic communications services in Northern Ireland; or

b

improving the extent, quality and reliability of such networks or services.

2

A payment shall not be made under this section unless in the opinion of the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Investment—

a

the making of the payment is likely to achieve—

i

one or more of the purposes set out in subsection (1); and

ii

any other purposes prescribed by regulations made by that Department with the approval of the Department of Finance and Personnel; and

b

the amount of the payment is reasonable having regard to all the circumstances.

3

Payments under this section shall—

a

be of such amounts, and

b

be made subject to such conditions (including conditions as to repayment),

as the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Investment may determine.

4

This section extends only to Northern Ireland.