Telecommunications Services.

Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 21 October 2004

Thursday, 21 October 2004

Questions (128)

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

122 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the way in which and when he first has his attention drawn to a health and safety issue which culminated in the cessation of television and telecommunication facilities to thousands of homes in the Dublin area; the precise nature of the health and safety issue; if his attention has further been drawn, either directly or though ComReg, to instructions to prevent a recurrence of the continued use of such technology and the sudden discontinuation of services; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25934/04]

Written answers

Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources (Mr. N. Dempsey)

I have no function in the matter raised by the Deputy. This is a matter for the Commission for Communications Regulations, ComReg. ComReg has statutory independence in the exercise of its functions.

Responsibility for the protection and promotion of consumer interests for electronic communications networks and services and the integrity of the network rests with ComReg under the European Communities (Electronic Communications Networks and Services) (Universal Service and Users Rights) Regulation, SI 308 of 2003. ComReg is mandated to ensure a high level of protection for consumers in their dealings with suppliers and to investigate complaints from consumers regarding the supply of, and access to, electronic communications services, networks and associated facilities.

ComReg understands that the company is concerned that the equipment it installed in customers' homes may, in certain circumstances, constitute a potential safety hazard through overheating. The manufacturers of the equipment issued a press release stating that, based on the evidence available to it, the probable cause of these incidents was the improper installation of the equipment. The company is required to protect its consumers and it must immediately offer an alternative provider and without exposing them to additional costs associated with such a transfer.

I understand that ComReg has met the company and instructed it to take immediate steps to minimise the impact of the interruption of its customers' telephone service in addition to considering issues concerning the equipment.

Specific issues which ComReg has immediately required of the company include: establishing a dedicated Freefone telephone number so that affected customers can obtain information on the issue and be provided with advice and assistance in restoring telephone service; discussing with other telephone service providers the possibility of similar facilities for affected customers; establishing call forwarding-call divert facilities so that customers can continue to receive incoming calls made using the existing number; and meeting the direct costs of the above which customers would otherwise have to pay.

I understand that ComReg will continue to closely monitor the situation to ensure that the company in question complies with its obligations.