WASHINGTON D.C. - In the current spectrum auction, the 700 MHz "D Block" has failed to attract the $1.3 billion minimum reserve bid. The block has been allocated for use as a public-private partnership, carrying such obligations as national buildout requirements and pre-emption for public safety communications in the event of an emergency. Why has bidding in the "D Block" auction fail to meet the reserve price? What does the failure of the auction mean for the future of public safety communications? These issues will be discussed by Declan Ganley, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Rivada Networks, at an April 29th CEO Luncheon hosted by The Progress & Freedom Foundation.

Ganley is the founder of Rivada Networks, a company that designs, integrates and operates public safety communications networks. He has extensive experience in the wireless and broadband industry, building and operating networks across Europe. Ganley currently serves as Chairman of the Forum on Public Safety in Europe & North America and as an advisor on "technology and terrorism" to the Club De Madrid group. After his keynote address, Ganley will participate in a panel discussion on spectrum policy with several distinguished analysts. The panel participants will be announced in upcoming weeks.

The CEO Luncheon featuring Declan Ganley will be held April 29th, from 12:00 to 2:00 pm in the Rotunda Room of the Ronald Reagan Building and International Trade Center in Washington, D.C. Those interested in attending the event can register online. Questions regarding the event should be directed to Jane Creel at 202-289-8928 or mail@pff.org. Members of the media should contact Amy Smorodin at 202-289-8928 or asmorodin@pff.org.

The Progress & Freedom Foundation is a market-oriented think tank that studies the digital revolution and its implications for public policy. It is a 501(c)(3) research & educational organization.