Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 14 May 2024
125. Deputy Rose Conway-Walsh asked the Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications to outline the role he has in ensuring with ComReg that phone signal is delivered across the State and addressing black spots that continue impact on connectivity; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21621/24]
View answerThe Mobile Phone and Broadband Taskforce, established by my Department, is a driving force for improving access to telecommunications services nationwide to alleviate mobile and fixed connectivity barriers. The current work programme focuses on Planning and Licencing, Improving Information and Access to Assets and Infrastructure, and Improving Consumer Information, Advice and Experience.
The roll-out of infrastructure for mobile telecommunications services in Ireland is primarily a matter for private mobile network operators, operating on a commercial basis in a liberalised market, regulated by the Commission for Communications Regulation (ComReg). ComReg is statutorily independent in the exercise of its functions in accordance with section 11 of the Communications Regulation Act 2002.
ComReg is continually updating and enhancing its online national outdoor mobile coverage map (available at: Service Coverage - Commission for Communications Regulation (comreg.ie), to provide clear information on where operators have good 2G, 3G, 4G and 5G coverage. This information can assist customers when considering moving to or visiting a particular area and in highlighting blackspots that need to be addressed.
