Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 29 June 2004
16 Mr. O’Dowd asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources if he intends to take actions in response to overcharging by companies (detail supplied) with respect to roaming charges to customers, to ensure that this overcharging is not likely to happen in the future; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [19304/04]
View answer22 Ms McManus asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources if, in view of the wide range of schemes and pricing options offered by mobile phone companies, he will consider the introduction of regulations requiring companies to simplify the cost breakdown of charges; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [19205/04]
View answer54 Ms Lynch asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources if, in view of a number of disclosures of cases in which mobile phone companies overcharged subscribers, he has satisfied himself that adequate procedures are in place to protect the interest of the consumer in this regard; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [19204/04]
View answer62 Mr. Hogan asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources if, in view of the fact that mobile phone operators currently offer in excess of 30 different tariffs to consumers, he has plans to introduce an APR-style charge system to help consumers compare prices; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [17940/04]
View answerI propose to take Questions Nos. 16, 22, 54 and 62 together.
The requirements relating to mobile phone charges and associated information are set out in the European Communities (Electronic Communications Networks and Services) (Universal Services and User's Rights) Regulations 2003, SI 308 of 2003, (USO Regulations). The Commission for Communications Regulation, ComReg, has responsibility for monitoring compliance by service providers with the aforesaid requirements. I have no statutory function in this regard.
In accordance with the regulations and following earlier public consultation, ComReg has issued a draft direction to operators relating to a code of practice for tariff presentation. Comments on the draft direction have been sought by 30 June next and I understand that ComReg intends to finalise the direction shortly thereafter. The core objective of the code is to ensure end-users have access to accurate and comprehensive tariff information on publicly available telephone services. Service providers shall ensure that tariff information is accurate, comprehensive and accessible. The purpose of the tariff information principles is to ensure that end-users have access to transparent and up-to-date information for services relevant to their telephony needs.
ComReg has sought a comprehensive report from each of the relevant mobile phone companies concerning alleged incidents of overcharging and will decide on the appropriate action it may take following the consideration of the reports. ComReg is also considering further initiatives to provide information to consumers on the range of communication services available. These steps will ensure that consumers are sufficiently informed to make the appropriate choices in terms of the service or package, which will best suit their needs.
