Ministry of Social Development selects Gen-i and Vodafone as preferred vendors

7 December 2007
For Immediate Release

“The Ministry of Social Development is in contract negotiations with Gen-i and Vodafone for its telecommunications service contract agreement,” announced Chief Information Officer Tim Occleshaw.

“As the current agreement with TelstraClear expires on 30 June 2008, the Ministry undertook an open tender process as part of our ongoing commitment to fairness of competition in the market place.

“The objective of the tender process was to identify a vendor that best meets existing and future business requirements. The Ministry is seeking the best leverage of future technology to enable the delivery of more effective outcomes,” said Tim Occleshaw.

The project issued a Request for Information in late November 2006 followed by a Request for Proposal in March 2007, and evaluation of the proposed solutions has been taking place since that time.

The new Telecommunications Service Contract will provide for all data, voice and mobility communications connectivity throughout the Ministry.

“It is an important piece of work which has received a great deal of focus by senior Ministry management, the State Services Commission and the NZ telecommunications industry.

“We have now completed our evaluation of vendor proposals. We are in the process of negotiating an agreement with the Ministry’s preferred vendors, Gen-i and Vodafone.

The Ministry enjoys a good relationship with TelstraClear and the feedback was always constructive and positive. TelstraClear will now work toward ensuring a smooth transition.

Media inquiries: Bronwyn Saunders, Chief Media Advisor, ph 04 916 3447 or 029 916 3887