Timmy Dooley (Clare, Fianna Fail)
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275. To ask the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources if his attention has been drawn to the potential implications that the upcoming auction of the 3.6 GHz spectrum may have for the provision of fixed wire broadband services across the country, particularly in areas in which this is the only available broadband; the steps he will take to address these concerns; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38180/16]

Denis Naughten (Roscommon-Galway, Independent)
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The management of the radio spectrum (including the allocation of radio spectrum, the award of spectrum licences and the associated application of terms and conditions and obligations) is a statutory function of the Commission for Communications Regulation (ComReg) under the Communications Regulation Act 2002, as amended. ComReg is independent in the exercise of this spectrum management function.

In October, I signed Regulations which will allow ComReg to auction spectrum in the 3.6GHz band (Wireless telegraphy (3.6GHz Band Licences) Regulations, 2016 (S.I.  532 of 2016)). This will allow ComReg to proceed to auction the 3.6GHz radio spectrum band, and will provide an 86% increase in total spectrum available for mobile and fixed wireless services.  The liberalisation of this band is in accordance with EU rules, and will allow the band to be used for a combination of mobile and wireless services, providing better quality voice and data services to customers across Ireland.

I have no role or function in the delivery of the auction process, which is a matter for ComReg. Having regard to the independence of ComReg in the matter it would not be appropriate for me to make any comment on this matter at this time.