The Competition Authority has received five submissions in its investigation into whether Eircell should be allowed to locate mobile phone antennae at 260 Garda sites around the State. The authority is examining whether any issues of competition will arise if Eircell is allowed to go ahead.

It is understood the authority will hold oral hearings shortly, possibly on August 10th which will allow those who made the submissions to argue their case. The authority has also retained a technical consultant to advise it on certain aspects of the study.

Those who have made submissions include Eircell and Esat Digifone. It is thought the Office of Telecommunications Regulation has also made a submission.

The authority was asked to examine the matter by the Minister for Enterprise and Employment, Ms Harney. The authority will also consider the implications of giving another operator the go-ahead to locate antennae on Garda masts and what would happen if some operators were allowed to use the sites while others were refused.

Eircell says it has been seeking to conclude a deal for over a year. Of the 260 sites in its proposal, 223 are included in the Esat agreement with the Garda. Eircell says it would build masts which could take antennae from at least three operators.

The authority is due to report to Ms Harney by September.