Jack Wall
Question:75 Mr. Wall asked the Minister for Finance if his consent has been sought to the charging of a fee for the third generation mobile telephonic licences; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4685/01]
Written Answers. - Telecommunication Licences.
As the Deputy is aware, under section 111(6) of the Postal and Telecommunications Services Act, 1983, as amended by Statutory Instrument No. 96 of 1998, my consent to the charging of a fee for such licences is required.
I have received a request for my consent to certain fee proposals from the Director of Telecommunications Regulation. Discussions are continuing with the Office of the Director of Telecommunications Regulation with a view to bringing the matter to a conclusion as quickly as possible. In fulfilling my statutory responsibility I will be concerned to ensure that the fees paid adequately reflect the value of the licences issued, taking account of the non-financial obligations involved in the licence terms, and of the importance of third generation mobile telephony to the development of the telecoms infrastructure in Ireland.