Liam Quaide (Cork East, Social Democrats)
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155. To ask the Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment his engagements with the Commission for Communications Regulation regarding the use of inflation-linked mid-contract price rises by phone and broadband companies; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [11074/25]

Liam Quaide (Cork East, Social Democrats)
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156. To ask the Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment if he has engaged with the Competition and Consumer Protection Commission regarding the use of inflation-linked mid-contract price rises by phone and broadband companies; whether this represents a fair practice towards consumers; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [11075/25]

Darragh O'Brien (Dublin Fingal East, Fianna Fail)
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I propose to take Questions Nos. 155 and 156 together.

I am aware of expected price increases by some broadband and mobile service providers in the coming weeks and months.

The pricing levels set by telecommunications services providers are a matter for those providers operating in a fully liberalised market. However, providing better protection for consumers is a priority for the Government, and my Department is currently examining options available to address the matter, if appropriate. My officials are actively engaging with the Commission for Communications Regulation (ComReg).

Both ComReg and the Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (CCPC) have competition law powers in the electronic communications market and I am informed that the issue raised by the Deputy concerning fair practice is being examined by the CCPC. Separately, I note that ComReg recently launched an enhanced price comparison tool on its website to assist consumers to find the best value contract for their needs and to help them review all terms and conditions before entering any contract.

It must be noted that both the CCPC and ComReg are statutorily independent in their functions.