North Rock Communications Ltd. is seeking a Public Telecommunications Service Licence to offer Internet services, the company revealed.

North Rock is a wholly owned subsidiary of North Rock Venture Inc., a Bermudian company that also owns Applied Computer Technologies Ltd. and computer product and supplies retailer, The Complete Office.

"The Internet has become the driving force behind the technology market and we are very excited about the possibility of being able to provide customers with the benefits offered through Internet communication,'' North Rock director Erich Hetzel said. "Our market research has indicated there is room for competition and growth in Bermuda and we've recognised the demand for a new Internet service provider.'' Internet Bermuda Ltd., a subsidiary of BSL Ltd., is the lone operational Internet provider in Bermuda.

North Rock Communications general manager Tom Coelho said that competition will lead to bigger and better Internet services "allowing Bermuda organisations to compete in a global environment.'' North Rock said it will offer a "comprehensive'' range of Internet services.

The application is slated to be heard by the Telecommunications Commission on Tuesday.