Pat Rabbitte (Dublin South West, Labour)

Senator O'Brien is correct. I share his concern about the manner in which this issue is being addressed. However, Vodafone's position is that it is dealing with a competitive situation. For example, O2 moved to e-billing without asking permission. Vodafone finds itself disadvantaged as a result. We have talked to ComReg about this issue. It is issuing a consultation paper on it. We suggested to it that it is important that the status quo is observed until that happens.

In terms of public policy and the discussion we had earlier about broadband and the knowledge society, we have to strike a balance between customer rights and stimulating demand. I hope ComReg will be able to resolve that problem because people who cannot access the Internet are at a serious disadvantage. Preference has to be acknowledged.