Timmy Dooley (Clare, Fianna Fail)
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18. To ask the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources the programme for Government commitments relating to improving mobile telephone coverage; the timetable for actions in this area; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21626/16]

Denis Naughten (Roscommon-Galway, Independent)
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The Programme for a Partnership Government commits to the establishment of a mobile phone and broadband Taskforce which will consider immediate measures to address telecommunications deficits in rural Ireland.  My Department is engaging with the Department of Arts, Heritage, Regional, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs in relation to the terms of reference for the Taskforce to ensure delivery of the Programme for Government commitment. The Taskforce will involve a number of Government Departments and agencies, as well as engagement with ComReg and telecommunications operators. My Department has already conducted a number of meetings with vendors and mobile operators to help inform the process and identify what tangible measures can be taken. I expect that Minister Humphreys and I will bring proposals to Government by the end of 2016, on foot of the Taskforce's report.

The Programme for a Partnership Government also commits also to measures to assist in the roll-out of the network once a contract is awarded. In this regard, Minister Humphreys is leading on the establishment of two regional action groups, working with Local Authorities, Local Enterprise Offices, LEADER Groups and other relevant agencies to help accelerate the broadband network build in rural Ireland, once a contract(s) has been awarded. I expect that the work of the National Taskforce will assist in the development of regional digital strategies, by providing guidance, legislation if appropriate, and information on how Local Authorities can accelerate the roll-out of services in their areas.

These new structures at national and local level, are designed to address as far as possible immediate frustrations about the quality of mobile phone and broadband coverage.

The commercial telecommunications sector has invested over €2bn in the last 4 years, in upgrading and modernising networks which support the provision of telecommunications services. These include the upgrading of 3G networks and investment in new 4G networks. It also includes significant investment in high speed broadband services. These investments are improving 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. ComReg is also planning the further release of spectrum to assist in the roll-out of wireless services, particularly in rural areas.

My Department continues to liaise closely with industry and relevant other Departments and agencies to assist in the commercial deployment of telecommunications networks and this will be a key focus for the Mobile Phone and Broadband Taskforce.