Dáil Éireann debate -
Tuesday, 7 Oct 2003

Vol. 571 No. 4

Written Answers. - Electronic Communications Appeals Panel.

Eamon Gilmore

Question:

148 Mr. Gilmore asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources when it is planned to establish the planned appeals board for the communications sector; if it will be done on a statutory basis; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22044/03]

Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources (Mr. D. Ahern)

The Electronic Communications Appeals Panel mechanism is set out under the European Communities (Electronic Communications Networks and Services) (Framework) Regulations, SI No. 207 of 2003. The regulations were signed into law on 21 July 2003.

The regulations provide for the establishment of a three person appeal panels to hear and decide on appeals against decisions of ComReg. Previously, appeals against decisions by ComReg were heard only in the courts. The new approach is expected to enable appeals to be dealt with quicker and cheaper than the courts system.

Membership of the panel will include a practising barrister or solicitor with a minimum of seven years experience, as well as persons with commercial, technical, regulatory or financial experience. I will shortly identify a number of persons with appropriate experience who would be agreeable to serve as members of an appeal panel and, in the event of an appeal against a decision of ComReg being made.