In order to provide mobile services, mobile operators must secure a licence from ComReg to get access to the required radio spectrum. These licences include terms and conditions on quality of service and coverage. ComReg monitors compliance with all such licence requirements. Compliance with quality and coverage conditions is carried out by means of bi-annual drive tests and I understand that the current tests are designed to cover all primary and secondary national routes, with measurements being performed on all Mobile Networks. In cases of non-compliance, ComReg has powers to enforce licence conditions, as appropriate, in accordance with the Authorisation Regulations (European Communities (Electronic Communications Networks and Services) (Authorisation) Regulations 2011. ComReg is independent in carrying out its statutory functions and I have no statutory role in this matter.
The commercial telecommunications sector is currently investing approximately €2.5bn in upgrading and modernising networks which support the provision of fixed and mobile high speed broadband services. Part of this significant investment is facilitating the rollout of 3G and 4G mobile services nationwide and this will further improve the coverage and quality of mobile voice and data services throughout the country.
In terms of addressing blackspots in mobile coverage, while investment in communications infrastructure and services is primarily a matter for the private sector, Government recognises that it has a role in ensuring that barriers to investment are removed where possible. The National Broadband Plan commits to a range of actions that will facilitate the more efficient investment in the rollout of communications infrastructure, including addressing planning and road opening challenges.
Since publication of the Plan in 2012, a working group has been established to address infrastructure issues which were identified by industry as creating barriers to deployment of services. The group is chaired by the Department of Transport and includes representatives from my Department, the Local Government Management Agency, the National Roads Authority (NRA) and Local Authorities. The Group is currently reviewing issues relating to the location of telecommunications infrastructure on public roads, particularly motorways, with a view to reducing blackspots and enhancing services. Consultation between the NRA and industry is ongoing on a range of issues relating to the citing of telecommunications infrastructure.
Local Authorities also have an important role in assisting the rollout of supporting infrastructure. My Department has worked closely with the Department of Environment, Community and Local Government to raise awareness of the role of the planning process in facilitating the delivery of telecommunications infrastructure and services.
My Department is also reviewing national spectrum policy, in line with another commitment in the National Broadband Plan and my officials are currently considering the outcome of a recent public consultation on spectrum policy. Current spectrum policy needs to be revisited as a matter of course and in light of the rapid technological changes and the increased demands on this limited and valuable resource. An important element of this review is to ensure that our legal and regulatory environment supports continued investment in mobile telecommunication infrastructure, which is dependent on access to radio spectrum. It is expected that this review will be completed in the first quarter of next year.
