Dáil Éireann debate -
Tuesday, 25 Nov 2003

Vol. 575 No. 3

Written Answers. - Mobile Telephony.

John Dennehy

Question:

221 Mr. Dennehy asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources his views on the ongoing, high charges for mobile phone customers; if he will consider granting additional powers to the telecommunications regulator to ensure that the considerable barriers to entry for new firms in the mobile market do not result in customers of existing firms facing exorbitant costs; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [28395/03]

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

While I am not directly responsible for the regulation of mobile phone charges, this area coming under the jurisdiction of the Commission for Communications Regulation, I am well aware of the level of dissatisfaction at the high level of charges and have asked the commission to actively examine this area.

The framework regulations, which I signed into law in July this year, mandate the Commission for Communications Regulation to conduct market definition and analysis processes into certain markets identified by the European Commission in a published recommendation. These markets are selected on the basis of containing characteristics which may be such as to justify the imposition of regulatory obligations. I note the Commission for Communications Regulation has started the process of market definition and analysis into two separate segments of the mobile telephony market, namely roaming and call termination. I welcome the start of this investigative process and trust that a positive outcome will ensue.

I will also receive progress reports on this issue in the context of a forthcoming review of the policy directions issued earlier this year and any future policy directions. I am particularly interested in any initiatives which may drive competition and I will keep the pricing situation under review. I will continue to encourage mobile operators to address the matter themselves in what is a fully liberalised market.