Ruairi Quinn (Dublin South East, Labour)
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Question 129: To ask the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources if he will instruct ComReg to monitor mobile broadband speeds and coverage on a monthly basis; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4547/09]

Bernard Durkan (Kildare North, Fine Gael)
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Question 516: To ask the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources his policy to improve mobile telephone quality and coverage here in line with the best standards throughout the European Union; if his attention has been drawn to the dramatic difference in this regard at present; if he has issued directives or instructions to the service providers or regulators to ensure the availability of a quality comparable product to consumers here; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4962/09]

Eamon Ryan (Dublin South, Green Party)
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I propose to take Question Nos. 129 and 516 together.

The regulation of telecommunications operators, including regulatory issues surrounding the quality of services in the mobile phone market, including mobile broadband, is the responsibility of the independent Commission for Communications Regulation (ComReg) in accordance with the requirements of the Communications Regulation Act 2002 and the Regulations which transpose the EU Regulatory Framework for Electronic Communications. The relevant service providers operate in a fully liberalised market.

Accordingly, I have not issued directives or instructions to ComReg or the mobile phone operators regarding the matters raised by the Deputies nor do I intend to do so.

The most recent Single Telecoms Market Progress Report published in 2008 describes Ireland's mobile market as diverse, competitive and advanced. In addition, recent surveys conducted by ComReg indicate that the majority of Irish people are content with existing broadband speeds and the value for money of their Internet service.

ComReg sets out the obligations on mobile network operators with regard to population coverage. These obligations are set down in the licence conditions for each operator. According to ComReg all four mobile network operators have complied with these targets to date. In addition they have invested significantly in their networks.