Brian O'Shea (Waterford, Labour)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Question 114: To ask the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources his views on the EU Telecoms Commissioner's views that retail prices in broadband must come down; if he will comment on her view that there would be no objection at EU level if the Government decided to buy or invest in Eircom's network arm; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [14674/08]

Eamon Ryan (Dublin South, Green Party)
Link to this: Individually | In context

I welcome Commissioner Reding's recent praise for Ireland's progress in increasing take-up of broadband. In addition I acknowledge her comments on the cost of retail broadband pricing. However, we have already seen a steady fall in the price of retail broadband in Ireland which can be attributed to an increase in competition. In 2002 the cost of eircom's standard DSL product was €107.70 per month. It has decreased on various occasions over the last number of years. In Q4 2007 the cost of the standard eircom DSL package was €24.99. I would anticipate that, as more providers with varying offers via different technologies have entered the market, the prices will fall further. The introduction of pay-as-you-go mobile broadband will further extend the choice available to consumers.