Eamon Ryan (Dublin South, Green Party)

I said I am reluctant to discuss the details of the judicial review but there will always be exceptions, no matter what technology we deliver and what country one is in. By dint of geography there will be houses that cannot be covered as there are in the delivery of the universal service obligation with regard to fixed lines. In those circumstances, it is right for us to allow for an alternative technology. The companies have an interest in attracting customers — it is a way of building a customer base. Whatever technology is used, it is likely to involve masts and an extensive network of radio connectivity in some areas. One does not want to leave those customers behind. The specific decision on any individual house is a technical decision. Currently, ComReg, in conjunction with the companies, determines how the technical term of all reasonable requests is defined. That will continue as it works at present with Eircom or a fixed line provider.

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