Tommy Broughan (Dublin North East, Labour)
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Question 465: To ask the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources if he will report on the proposed rollout of 4G in view of the fact that many States have already fully rolled out the 4G network; the estimated timeframe for the full implementation of the 4G network [19830/12]

Pat Rabbitte (Dublin South West, Labour)
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The roll out of 4G networks is subject to the development of the necessary equipment standards and specifications, which is ongoing at this time. For example, testing and trials are currently underway for Long Term Evolution-Advanced (LTE-Advanced) which is one of the technologies expected to be able to meet international requirements for 4G. No State or network operator has yet rolled out a completed national 4G network. In addition, in Ireland, the provision of any wireless communications service, including 4G services, is subject to the award of the appropriate radio spectrum rights by the Commission for Communications Regulation (ComReg).

ComReg has recently published its decision for the auction of a number of individual rights of use in the 800 MHz, 900 MHz and 1800 MHz radio spectrum bands. This auction will offer spectrum rights of use for the period 2013 to 2030. The spectrum rights of use being auctioned, in particular the 800 MHz and 900 MHz spectrum bands, are highly suitable for advanced mobile services, including 4G services, due to their excellent propagation properties which give high quality and wide area coverage. ComReg is independent in the exercise of this function.

Having regard to the independence of ComReg in this matter, the requirement to secure spectrum rights to operate any publicly accessible wireless network and the publicly notified planned auction of spectrum rights, it would not be appropriate for me to comment further on this matter at this time.