Joe Costello (Dublin Central, Labour)
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Question 103: To ask the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources his views on proposals regarding local loop unbundling; his further views on whether this is a critical development for broadband roll out; the steps he will take to achieve a significant level of access to the local loop; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [34367/05]

Bernard Allen (Cork North Central, Fine Gael)
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Question 135: To ask the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources if achievements to date in 2005 in respect of local loop unbundling are adequate to facilitate the development of the communications industry with particular reference to ready availability to the consumer; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [34484/05]

Bernard Allen (Cork North Central, Fine Gael)
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Question 175: To ask the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources if local loop unbundling or other requirements to facilitate broadband or other telecommunications provision or expansion has been completed to date in 2005; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [34483/05]

Noel Dempsey (Meath, Fianna Fail)
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I propose to take Questions Nos. 103, 135 and 175 together.

Local loop unbundling, LLU, is mandated by a European Council regulation and responsibility for its implementation is a matter for the Commission for Communications Regulation, ComReg, under the Communications Regulation Act 2002 and the transposed EU regulatory framework for electronic communications networks and services, working with all the industry players. ComReg is independent in the execution of its functions in accordance with the provisions of the 2002 Act.

LLU was the subject of a court case earlier this year. ComReg directions to Eircom relating to LLU were found to have denied Eircom's right to appeal to the electronic communications appeals panel. ComReg's directions were subsequently withdrawn and ComReg is working with Eircom and the industry on the issue. Local loop unbundling is an important element of facilitating competition and broadband delivery. Local loop unbundling in Ireland remains low. I have recently asked ComReg to report to me on what additional regulatory powers are required, if any, to advance local loop unbundling.

In the forthcoming miscellaneous provisions Bill I will provide for increased penalties and more efficient prosecuting procedures for ComReg. These increased enforcement powers will give ComReg greater muscle to enforce regulatory decisions to support the development of competition in the telecoms market.