Mattie McGrath (Tipperary, Independent)
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561. To ask the Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment his views on whether Chinese technology companies (details supplied) pose a threat to State security; if so, the work that has been done to mitigate this risk; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [50971/18]

Mattie McGrath (Tipperary, Independent)
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562. To ask the Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment his views on whether an EU led initiative to assess the security threat of Chinese technology providers is warranted (details supplied); his further views on the establishment of such an initiative; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [50973/18]

Richard Bruton (Dublin Bay North, Fine Gael)
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I propose to take Questions Nos. 561 and 562 together.

EU initiatives which impact across sectors and areas of ministerial responsibility are assessed across Government as appropriate. State security, however, is primarily a matter for my colleague the Minister for Justice and Equality. 

My Department nonetheless keeps the security of the telecommunications sector under ongoing review.

Additionally, there are legislative requirements on telecoms operators in relation to managing risks posed to the security of their networks and services.  The European Communities (Electronic Communications Networks and Services) (Framework) Regulations 2011 (S.I. No. 333 of 2011), set out, inter alia, the requirements of operators with regards to the security and integrity of their networks. The Commission for Communications Regulation, ComReg, which is statutorily independent in the exercise of its functions, is responsible for ensuring compliance with these provisions.