Written answers

Thursday, 26 May 2016

Department of Communications, Energy and Natural Resources

Mobile Telephony Services

Photo of Timmy DooleyTimmy Dooley (Clare, Fianna Fail)
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241. To ask the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources the status of mobile telephone coverage and the steps he is taking to improve it in accordance with the measures and timetable set out in the programme for Government; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12440/16]

Photo of Denis NaughtenDenis Naughten (Roscommon-Galway, Independent)
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The management of radio spectrum is a statutory function of the Commission for Communications Regulation (ComReg). ComReg is independent in the exercise of its functions. Accordingly, I have no statutory function in this matter.

I am aware however that licences issued by ComReg apply terms and conditions on Mobile Network Operators, such as quality of service and minimum population coverage obligations. The design of the network is a matter entirely for the operator concerned although operators tend to exceed their minimum coverage requirements for commercial reasons. ComReg monitors compliance with licence requirements by means of bi-annual drive tests. I understand that current testing is designed to cover all primary and secondary national routes, with measurements being performed on all Mobile Networks.

Notwithstanding the independent role of ComReg, the Programme for a Partnership Government commits to the establishment within 100 days of a mobile phone and broadband Taskforce which will consider immediate measures to address telecommunications deficits in rural Ireland.  My Department will be engaging with the Department of Regional Development, Rural Affairs, Arts and the Gaeltacht in relation to the terms of reference for the task force including its membership to ensure delivery of the Programme for Government commitment within the timelines set out. 

In the meantime, my Department continues to liaise closely with industry and relevant other Departments and agencies to assist in the commercial deployment of telecommunications networks. The commercial telecommunications sector has invested over €2bn in upgrading and modernising networks which support the provision of high speed broadband services including acquiring spectrum under ComReg's 2012 Multi-Band Spectrum Auction for roll-out of 3G and 4G mobile services. These investments will further improve the coverage and quality of broadband and mobile voice and data services throughout the country although I understand that some temporary disruptions to service have been encountered when upgrades are taking place.

The Department is working with the Department of Transport, Tourism and Sport and the  Department of Environment, Community and Local Government with a view to removing planning and other infrastructure barriers to telecommunications infrastructure roll-out.

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