Timmy Dooley (Clare, Fianna Fail)
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248. To ask the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources if he has corresponded with the European Commission with regard to the potential impact of Brexit on the upcoming implementation of free mobile phone roaming charges; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25201/17]

Denis Naughten (Roscommon-Galway, Independent)
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My officials and I take every opportunity to discuss the potential impacts of Brexit with our EU and UK colleagues, including with the European Commission Article 50 Task Force.The EU Roaming Regulations aim to abolish retail roaming charges within the EU on 15 June 2017, subject to Fair Use Policy.  At that point in time, the UK will still be a member of the EU and will thus be required to abide by EU law in place at that time.

It is not yet possible to say what impact Brexit will have on cross border roaming charges once the UK formally leaves the Union. This will be largely dependent on the future relationship between the EU and UK.

The UK Government White Paper on Brexit sets out that the UK wishes to ensure that the UK telecoms companies can continue to trade as freely and competitively as possible with the EU.

I can assure the Deputy that my Department will continue to engage with the key stakeholders on this matter both domestically and at EU level and has identified this policy area as a priority.