Catherine Murphy (Kildare North, Independent)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Question 131: To ask the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources if, further to Parliamentary Question No. 15 of 12 May, 2011, the consultation process for transposing the 2003 EU regulatory framework of the telecommunications market will be extended beyond the telecommunications industry to include relevant consumer groups and the general public; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [14860/11]

Pat Rabbitte (Dublin South West, Labour)
Link to this: Individually | In context

A revised EU regulatory framework for telecommunications was adopted by the European Council and Parliament in December 2009. Following detailed consultations with the national regulatory authorities, the industry and other stakeholders, draft regulations transposing the revised regulatory framework into Irish law are currently being finalised by the Office of the Parliamentary Counsel. I expect to sign the regulations and make them effective very shortly.

The regulatory framework covers a wide range of technical issues to, among other things, provide strong independent regulation of the telecommunications market, promote competition, encourage investment in new and existing infrastructure and protect and strengthen the interests of the consumer. I am satisfied that during the consultation process with the regulatory authorities and with other stakeholders, the interests of the consumer and the general public were adequately represented and reflected in the draft regulations.