The provision of telecommunications services underlies the delivery of e-business services. The provision of such services is a matter in the first instance for the companies who now operate in a fully liberalised market, regulated by the independent Director of Telecommunications Regulation. As Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources, I am responsible for public policy in the telecommunications sector within which these companies operate.
However, recognising that there are areas of the country that are not as economically attractive for firms to invest in infrastructure and services, I have undertaken a number of initiatives to facilitate the rollout of advanced communications infrastructure which seek to address gaps in communications infrastructure in regional Ireland.