Brendan Smith
Question:132 Mr. B. Smith asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the progress to date in relation to the availability of flat rate Internet access; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12488/03]
Written Answers. - Telecommunications Services.
On 21 February 2003, in accordance with section 13 of the Communications Regulation Act 2002 (No. 20 of 2002), I issued a set of policy directions to the Commission for Communications Regulation, ComReg, including one relating to flat rate Internet access.
The purpose of the policy direction on flat rate Internet access is to ensure that ComReg makes use of its powers as appropriate to facilitate the early introduction of retail flat rate Internet access services.
Given the importance attached to the introduction of retail flat rate Internet access services in Ireland, I instructed ComReg to report to me on progress made in relation to this matter within one month of the issue of the direction, and on a monthly basis thereafter until such time as retail services are introduced.
I am pleased to state that ComReg has reported to me that the introduction of flat rate Internet access is on course. ComReg informs me that it has issued a series of directions to, and with respect to, the incumbent operator with the objective of paving the way for the introduction of retail flat rate Internet access services in the Irish market by the end of June 2003.
I am confident that there is sufficient interest among operators in the product to ensure that retail prices will be pitched at a competitive level, thus allowing for a greater number of people to avail of the product and maximising the benefit for all users of the product.