calls to Bermudians, it was revealed yesterday.

The groups are challenging the monopoly on international calls held by Cable & Wireless.

Details of four of the groups were made public yesterday. They will be open to question by members of the Telecommunications Commission -- and ordinary Bermudians -- at public hearings next Wednesday.

The four groups unveiled yesterday were: Global Access Bermuda, which operated briefly last year before C&W won a court ruling that it was illegal without a licence.

North Atlantic Telecommunications, backed by VSB boss Mr. Kenneth DeFontes.

Island Bell, founded by local businessmen Mr. Mark Hamilton and Mr. Edwin Faries.

Bermuda International Telcom, which has a former chairman of Mercury, part of Cable & Wireless, as a director.

Full story -- see Business, Page 10.