Tommy Broughan (Dublin North East, Labour)
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To ask the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources if he has been briefed by ComReg on their recent document Price regulation of Bundled Offers, 12/63; his views on this proposal and if it significantly disadvantages broadband users in rural areas; his views on whether ComReg should undertake a market analysis of rural and urban broadband; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [51015/12]

Pat Rabbitte (Dublin South West, Labour)
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The Commission for Communications Regulation (ComReg) is independent in the exercise of its functions in accordance with the provisions of the Communications Regulation Act 2002, as amended.

I understand from ComReg that the purpose of document 12/63 was to revisit the existing regulatory controls in place on Eircom Limited when it sells a bundle or bundles of services that include Retail Fixed Narrowband Access.

ComReg’s final decision in this case will be issued shortly and will include a full and final Regulatory Impact (RIA). ComReg has advised me that its proposal in this matter does not change the regulation of broadband in rural areas in any respect and that it does, therefore, not disadvantage rural users.

In relation to a market analysis, I am advised by ComReg that its previous market analysis of wholesale broadband, was conducted in 2011 and the next market analysis is scheduled for 2014.