The acquisition, which is subject to regulatory approval on each individual island, will significantly expand Digicel’s network from its existing nine markets of operation which include the most recent addition of Trinidad & Tobago, to Anguilla, Bermuda, St. Kitts & Nevis, Antigua & Barbuda and Dominica. The acquisition also strengthens Digicel’s market share in the Cayman Islands, Grenada, St. Lucia, Barbados and St. Vincent & the Grenadines, where Cingular’s customer base will move to Digicel.

In Anguilla, Digicel says it will launch a GSM network on the island and take part in the liberalization of the telecommunications industry, bringing the benefits of competitive rates, international roaming, improved coverage, and new products and services.

“We are very pleased that Digicel will be playing a role in the liberalization of the Anguilla telecommunications sector," commented Anguilla's Minister for Infrastructure, Communities and Utilities, Kenneth Harrigan.

“Having seen the benefits that Digicel’s presence in other Caribbean markets has brought, we are confident that we are in a strong position for improved telecommunications to make a significant contribution towards the development of our tourism, financial and information-based services on our island," added Mr. Harrigan.

In Bermuda, Digicel will attempt to expand Cingular’s existing operation and become the number one mobile telecommunications provider on the island.

“Being one of the first small countries in the world to break the stranglehold of monopoly in the telecommunications sector, we have seen in Bermuda first hand the benefits that competition brings in driving growth and development,” noted Bermuda's Minister of Telecommunications and E-commerce, Michael J. Scott.

“Digicel’s business model and aims of attracting international business fairly complement the Bermuda model. The company’s impressive track record of recruiting and training an energetic workforce, together with its highly efficient operational model, functional organizational structure, and quick decision making, is impressive and would add value to the Bermuda telecoms scene,” Mr Scott added.

Meanwhile, Mr. Colm Delves, CEO of Digicel Group observed that: "We look forward to becoming the number one provider on both islands and are focused on creating a seamless pan-Caribbean network that benefits all of our customers. We are also very excited about strengthening connections with the people of Bermuda and Anguilla by becoming an active member of their communities.”

Digicel has investment in the Caribbean region worth some US$600 million, and the company anticipates a 30 percent increase in staff by the end of 2006, due to subscriber growth and market expansion.