Pat Rabbitte (Dublin South West, Labour)
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Mobile communications is dependent on access to spectrum. The Government recognises that spectrum is a valuable natural national resource, which needs to be used as effectively and efficiently as possible for the good of the state - both economic and social – and the good of all its citizens. Policy in this area therefore aims to ensure that mobile communications contribute to sustainable economic growth, jobs, competitiveness and social inclusion. While I have overall responsibility for spectrum policy, the day-to-day management of radio spectrum and the application of terms and conditions attached to mobile licences is a statutory function of the Commission for Communications Regulation under the Communications Regulation Act, 2002 as amended. The National Broadband Plan, which was published in 2012 following extensive consultation with interested parties on topics including radio spectrum, contains specific proposals to review national policy on spectrum. The review is to be carried out on a consultative basis which I intend to initiate over the coming months. This review will deal with a broad range of issues relating to policy in the use of spectrum while respecting the role of ComReg as independent Regulator with responsibility for the management of spectrum on a day-to-day basis.

In terms of the mobile communications market, ComReg's 2012 multiband spectrum auction has released additional radio spectrum previously unavailable for mobile operators. This is expected to further improved the coverage and quality of mobile service throughout the country. Since the auction, three mobile operators have launched 4G high speed mobile broadband services and rollout is continuing. There has also been continued investment by all operators in enhancing and broadening 3G services and network improvements. These significant investments mark a clear indication of investor confidence in the mobile telecommunications market.