Denis Naughten (Roscommon-Galway, Independent)
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The market regulator, ComReg, is independent in the exercise of its functions in accordance with a requirement to that effect in (EU) Directive 2002/21/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council of 7 March 2002 on a common regulatory framework for electronic communications networks and services. That legislation provides, inter alia, obligations on telecommunications services providers to include in customers’ contracts information regarding the minimum service quality levels and the types of maintenance service offered, the customer support services provided, the means of contacting those services and conditions regarding any compensation and refund arrangements which apply if contracted service quality levels are not met.

In addition, the Communications Regulation Act 2002, as amended, prohibits inter alia telecommunications services providers from imposing charges on customers for services not provided. Any customer who is charged for a telecommunications service which is not provided or who cannot resolve a quality of service dispute in bilateral dealings with the service provider can submit a dispute to the ComReg to pursue further.

These measures are in addition to the more general consumer protection rights and dispute resolution procedures which apply to the provision of goods and services generally.

ComReg is accountable “for the performance of its functions to a Committee of one or both Houses of the Oireachtas” as provided for in Section 34 (2) of the Communications Regulations Act 2002 as amended.

There are no proposals to amend these legislative provisions at this time . 

I established the Mobile Phone and Broadband Taskforce, together with Minister Humphreys, which aims to unlock barriers to investment in mobile and broadband services by identifying and recommending practical actions that can be taken to improve mobile reception and broadband access. ComReg has engaged with the Taskforce throughout this process, contributing towards actions that will benefit the consumer. Minister Humphreys and I intend to bring the report of the Taskforce to Government in the coming weeksThis report will set out specific timelines for the delivery of the recommendations and actions.