Written Answers Nos. 48-65
48. Deputy Eamon Ryan asked the Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment if his attention has been drawn to the fact that there were upwards of 400 persons at the sustainability gathering in Dublin Castle recently, all demanding government action on policy for sustainability; and his plans to fast-track policy to support clean energy and sustainable business. [37399/16]
View answerI welcome the interest reflected at the Sustainability Gathering 2016 and indeed note the participation of relevant officials from my own Department in the discussions that took place. It will be important to continue this dialogue as I have responsibility for a number of key areas where policy is being progressed consistent with, and in support of, sustainable development.
Sustainability is an important policy principle supporting on-going climate-action related work. The Climate Action and Low Carbon Development Act, 2015 provides statutory recognition of the 'national transition objective' – the goal of pursuing a low carbon, climate resilient and environmentally sustainable economy by 2050. In order to facilitate the achievement of this objective, the 2015 Act provides for the development and submission to Government of national mitigation plans and adaptation frameworks which must take account of, inter alia, the need to promote sustainable development in performing functions related to these measures.
I intend shortly to initiate a public consultation on a new Clean Air Strategy for Ireland. The initiatives on climate action and air quality are key steps in progressing national policy in support of transition to a low-carbon, competitive and environmentally sustainable future.
The Energy White Paper, Ireland's Transition to a Low Carbon Energy Future 2015-2030, sets out a long-term vision to guide Irish energy policy and actions to be taken in the energy sector from now until 2030, in order to transform Ireland into a low carbon society and economy by 2050 and reduce our fossil fuel dependency. The Government has a range of policy measures and schemes in place to accelerate the development and diversification of renewable energy in Ireland including the REFIT schemes which underpin the development of a range of renewable electricity technologies. Two new renewables support schemes are also under development including a Renewable Heat Incentive (RHI) aimed at increasing renewables in the heat sector and a Renewable Electricity Support Scheme aimed at providing support for renewable electricity.
Concerning waste, my Department is actively engaged in the on-going discussions on the EU action plan on the circular economy. The circular economy aims to replace the ‘take-make-dispose’ model of production with a more sustainable one that champions recycling and renewables, the reduction of emissions and waste, minimum extraction of virgin raw materials and the reuse of valuable components and materials.
Finally, Our Sustainable Future – the Framework for Sustainable Development in Ireland, which was launched in June 2012, identifies some 70 measures to be implemented across Government and tasks a high-level inter-departmental group with ensuring that the vision set out in the policy document is translated into clear and effective action. The report on implementation of the framework published last year described how Ireland continues to move in the right direction generally across the spectrum of sustainable development goals. As economic activity increases, maintaining the focus on sustainability in parallel with economic recovery and growth will be critical.
49. Deputy Richard Boyd Barrett asked the Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment his plans to safeguard existing fixed wireless broadband networks in view of the ongoing tendering for the national broadband plan; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38628/16]
View answerIn October, I signed Regulations which will allow ComReg to auction spectrum in the 3.6GHz band (Wireless telegraphy (3.6GHz Band Licences) Regulations, 2016 (S.I. 532 of 2016)). The liberalisation of this band is an EU requirement and the release of spectrum in this band will provide an 86% increase in total spectrum available for mobile and/or fixed wireless services, leading to better quality voice and data services to customers across Ireland.
ComReg is independent in its functions and I have no role in the process for allocating the spectrum which is now underway. Having regard to the independence of ComReg in the matter and the fact that a process is underway, it would not be appropriate for me to comment further on the matter at this time. I would note however that the allocation process followed extensive public consultation by ComReg over almost a two year period.
The National Broadband Plan (NBP) aims to deliver high speed services to every city, town, village and individual premises in Ireland. The Programme for Government commits to the delivery of the NBP as a matter of priority. This is being achieved through private investment by commercial telecommunications companies and through a State intervention in areas where commercial investment has not been fully demonstrated.
The Department is now in a formal procurement process to select a company or companies who will roll-out a new high speed broadband network in the State Intervention Area comprising over 750,000 premises in Ireland, covering 100,000km of road network and 96% of the land area of Ireland and is intended to offer wholesale services to retailers.
In line with State Aid Guidelines for deployment of high speed broadband the procurement process is technology neutral. All three bidders involved in the competitive dialogue process are proposing a predominantly fibre-to-the–home network solution to connect rural Ireland. This is their choice of technology. It is however possible that wireless technology may be part of the solutions proposed and this is a matter for bidders. Furthermore, as the network to be built will offer wholesale services, on an open-access basis, it will be open to existing wireless retailers to offer services on the new network. Wireless operators can also connect their technologies to the network if they can meet the high speed broadband specifications set out in the Plan, which includes a minimum of 30 megabits per second download speed and 6 megabits per second upload speed.
50. Deputy Mick Barry asked the Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment his plans to provide private media companies with revenue from the broadcast charge fee; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38589/16]
View answerThe licence fee is distributed in accordance with Section 123 of the Broadcasting Act 2009, to both RTÉ and TG4 in order to facilitate the pursuit of their public service objectives. In addition, 7% of the revenue goes towards the Broadcasting Fund, which is operated by the Broadcasting Authority of Ireland. The schemes established under this Fund provide funding in support of high quality programmes on Irish culture, heritage and experience, programmes to improve adult literacy, and archiving of programme material. Revenue from this fund can be applied for by independent producers and broadcasters for specific projects of a public service nature.
I am very conscious that while the TV licence fee model has provided a measure of stability to date, the rapid changes in technology altering the traditional way in which television is watched, together with economic pressures generally, means that a serious question mark exists over the ability of the current funding model to be able to provide continued stable funding for public service media in the longer term. My Department is currently examining a number of actions to strengthen the current model.
The issue of funding public service media in the longer term is one that requires extensive engagement with all stakeholders including the commercial and community sectors. With that in mind, I recently asked the Joint Oireachtas Committee to consider the issue. I am happy to say that the Committee has responded positively to my request and has launched a public consultation and initiated engagement with all stakeholders in early November 2016.
I look forward to receiving the Committee's Report in due course which will help to inform my decisions on this important issue.
51. Deputy Sean Sherlock asked the Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment his plans to ensure that the television licence fee is collected in full; and the discussions he has had with RTE regarding the provision of the licence fee. [38569/16]
View answerI recognise the important part that public service broadcasters play in our democratic society. The provision of stable and adequate funding is essential to ensuring the continued delivery of their role in this regard. I am very much aware, however, of the challenges that face the existing TV Licence system, including the current unacceptable levels of evasion. While the rate has fallen from 15.3% at the end of 2013 to the current rate of 13.75% it is still very high.
In that context, my Department has been working with An Post and RTÉ on an on-going basis so that all steps are being taken to ensure the system is working as effectively as possible. Measures such as marketing campaigns, more evening and weekend inspections and appointment of additional temporary Inspectors are just some of the initiatives that have been utilised to enhance sales and improve compliance rates.
My Department is also currently examining a number of additional actions that might be taken with the aim of strengthening the system including legislative amendment to provide for the tendering of Licence fee collection.
52. Deputy Mick Wallace asked the Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment his views on the findings of the SEAI that greenhouse gas emissions here grew by 5% in 2015; his further views on the projections that Ireland will almost certainly miss EU 2020 emissions targets; the expected fines that will be incurred by the State if it fails to meet these targets; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38615/16]
View answer59. Deputy Brian Stanley asked the Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment the actions being implemented and the measures being put in place by Departments to ensure Ireland's 2020 targets on greenhouse gas emissions are not missed. [38505/16]
View answerI propose to take Questions Nos. 52 and 59 together.
For each year between 2013 and 2020, Ireland has a Greenhouse Gas Emissions (GHG) emissions reduction target under the 2009 Effort Sharing Decision (ESD) No. 406/2009/EC. For the year 2020 itself, the target set for Ireland is that emissions should be 20% below their value in 2005. This is jointly the most demanding 2020 reduction target allocated under the ESD, and one shared only by Denmark and Luxembourg. The 2013 target is based on the average of emissions for the years 2008-2010. The target for each of the years 2014 through 2019 is on a straight-line trajectory between the targets for 2013 and 2020, and surpluses in one year can be used to cover deficits in any subsequent year. The average incidence of these targets is a 12% reduction relative to 2005.
In March 2016, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) published projected emissions for 2020 which indicate that Ireland’s emissions at that stage could be in the range of 6 - 11% below 2005 levels. On a cumulative basis over the period 2013 - 2020, Ireland is projected to have a deficit of between 3 and 12 Megatonnes Carbon Dioxide Equivalent (MtCO2e).
According to the latest GHG inventory published by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) in November 2016, emissions for 2015 are estimated at 59.84 million tonnes carbon dioxide equivalent (MtCO2eq), which is 3.7% higher than emissions in 2014.
The extent of the challenge to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, in line with our EU and international commitments, is well understood by the Government, as reflected in the National Policy Position on Climate Action and Low Carbon Development, published in April 2014, and now underpinned by the Climate Action and Low Carbon Development Act, 2015, which was enacted in December 2015. The National Policy Position provides a high-level policy direction for the adoption and implementation by Government of plans to enable the State to move to a low carbon economy by 2050. Statutory authority for the plans is set out in the Act.
I intend to launch an initial non-statutory public consultation process shortly to inform preparation of a draft National Mitigation Plan. This draft Plan will then be subject to a further statutory consultation, followed by submission of a final plan to Government for approval by June 2017. Work is well underway on the development of the National Mitigation Plan, the primary objective of which will be to track implementation of measures already underway, identify additional measures in the longer term to reduce GHG emissions, and progress the overall national low carbon transition agenda to 2050. The first iteration of the National Mitigation Plan will place particular focus on putting the necessary measures in place to address the challenge to 2020, but also in terms of planning ahead to ensure that appropriate policies and measures can be put in place beyond this date and out to 2030.
Notwithstanding the efforts outlined above to address the challenge to comply with the 2020 targets, in the likely event that a gap to target still exists in 2020, retirement of Annual Emissions Allocations and units from the Kyoto Protocol Flexibility Mechanisms carried forward from 2008-2012 can be offset against the deficit. If this does not fully address any potential deficit, further carbon units could be purchased. It is not possible to accurately quantify the cost to purchase notional carbon units at this stage as the cost is dependent on both the quantum and price of carbon units to be purchased at the time. Should the need to purchase carbon units arise, funding options will be considered in due course and will have regard to a number of matters, including the need to comply with the fiscal rules.
53. Deputy Eamon Ryan asked the Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment his plans to encourage the development of the electric vehicle fleet and electric vehicle charge points here. [38630/16]
View answerThe 2009 Renewable Energy Directive sets all Member States a binding target that at least 10% of the energy used in the transport sector must come from renewable sources by 2020. Ireland aims to meet this target mainly through the increased use of sustainable biofuels, with electric vehicles (EVs) also making a small contribution. In 2015, 5.7% of the energy in transport was from renewable sources.
Since 2011, the Electric Vehicle Grant Scheme has been supporting and incentivising, through grants of up to €5,000, the deployment of EVs in Ireland. These grants are in addition to tax incentives such as the Vehicle Registration Tax (VRT) reliefs of up to €5,000, which apply to EVs and Accelerated Capital Allowances (ACA), which allows companies to offset the cost of investment in qualifying technologies including EVs. Budget 2017 extended the relief from VRT on EVs for a further 5 year period and on Hybrid vehicles for 2 years. The purchase of 1,702 new EVs has been supported since the Grant Scheme commenced. Of these, 615 have been grant aided to date this year which is an increase from 2015 when 555 were grant aided over the full year.
The ESB, through its ecars programme, has installed almost 900 publically accessible charge points for electric vehicles. These include 79 DC fast chargers, most of which have been installed mainly on the inter-urban roads. The location of these charge-points is available on the ‘ecars’ section of the ESB’s website at www.esb.ie. In addition, ESB ecars has installed over 1,900 charge points in domestic and commercial premises.
In accordance with the commitment in the Programme for Government, my Department and the Department of Transport, Tourism and Sport are establishing and will co-Chair a Low Emissions Vehicles Task Force involving relevant Government Departments and agencies. The first meeting is scheduled for later this month. A key task will be to examine as a matter of priority what further actions are necessary to further stimulate EV sales and other low emission vehicles to 2020 and beyond. In addition, the Task Force will look at actions to ensure sufficient and effective charging infrastructure exists as the EV fleet develops.
54. Deputy Clare Daly asked the Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment if he is satisfied that the national broadcaster has met the legal and regulatory requirements under the Broadcasting Act 2009 with regard to the outsourcing of programming by RTE. [38307/16]
View answer55. Deputy Clare Daly asked the Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment the discussions his Department had with the RTE authorities prior to the announcement that the broadcaster would outsource all young persons' programming; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38306/16]
View answer66. Deputy Catherine Martin asked the Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment if he has had any discussions with the RTE board or management about cuts in children's programmes and the outsourcing of same. [38623/16]
View answerI propose to take Questions Nos. 54, 55 and 66 together.
RTÉ is an independent national public service broadcaster whose remit and obligations are set out in the Broadcasting Act 2009.
Section 114 (1) of the Broadcasting Act 2009 states the principal objects and associated powers of RTÉ and Section 98 provides that it shall be independent in the pursuance of these objects, subject to the requirements of the Act.
As such, I have not had any discussions with RTÉ in relation to its recent announcement that it intendeds to commission its young people’s programmes from the independent sector. The decision is solely a matter for the Board and management of RTÉ and, while it remains subject to discussion with the RTÉ Trade Union Group, I am satisfied that the decision is in compliance with RTÉ’s obligations under the Broadcasting Act 2009.
The decision is a reflection of the difficult financial challenges being faced by the broadcaster and the need for it to examine all options to ensure that it is operating as efficiently as possible.
I welcome RTÉ’s statement that the decision does not reduce its commitment to young people’s programming which is vital in ensuring that our children can continue to watch content with Irish voices and Irish stories.
56. Deputy Charlie McConalogue asked the Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment the status of the current projected commencement date and completion date for the national broadband plan; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38342/16]
View answerThe National Broadband Plan (NBP) aims to deliver high speed services to every city, town, village and individual premises in Ireland. The Programme for Government commits to the delivery of the NBP as a matter of priority. This is being achieved through a combination of commercial investment by the telecommunications sector and through a State intervention in those areas where commercial investment has not been fully demonstrated.
The Department is now in a formal procurement process to select a company or companies who will roll out a new high-speed broadband network within the State Intervention Area, comprising over 750,000 premises, covering 100,000km of road network and 96% of the land area of Ireland.
Intensive dialogue with bidders is continuing and the three bidders have indicated that they are proposing a predominantly fibre-to-the-home solution. Householders and businesses may get speeds not just of 30 megabits per second but potentially up to 1000 megabits per second with businesses potentially availing of symmetrical upload and download speeds.
Earlier this year, before I came into office, the Department announced that it would be June 2017 before contract(s) were awarded under the NBP. The bidders in the process have recently indicated that they may need more time to conclude the procurement process. The timing of each stage of the procurement continues to be dependent on a range of factors including the complexities that may be encountered by the procurement team and bidders during the procurement process. Bidders need adequate time to prepare detailed proposals and their final formal bids. In addition, bidders need adequate time to get the relevant shareholder and funding approvals at key stages of the process. It is also important to ensure that risks in this multi-million euro procurement are carefully managed. I do not propose to comment any further on timelines at this juncture, given that discussions are on-going in the procurement process. I can assure the Deputy, however, that the procurement process is being intensively managed, to ensure an outcome that delivers a future-proofed network that serves homes and businesses across Ireland, for at least 25 years. The Government considers the NBP to be one of the most significant investments in rural Ireland for decades, and one that will transform society, akin to rural electrification in the last century.
During the Department's extensive stakeholder consultations in 2015, telecommunications service providers indicated a 3-5 year timeline to rollout a network of the scale envisaged under the NBP. As part of the competitive process, the Department will engage with winning bidder(s) on the best rollout strategy, in order to target areas of particularly poor service, business needs and/or high demand. This will need to be balanced with the most efficient network rollout plan. A prioritisation programme will be put in place in this regard, in consultation with the Minister for Arts, Heritage, Regional, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs. A detailed rollout plan for the network will be published once contract(s) are in place.
The Programme for Government also commits to measures to assist in the rollout of the network once a contract is awarded. In this regard, Minister Humphreys is leading on the establishment of two regional action groups, working with Local Authorities, Local Enterprise Offices and other relevant agencies to help accelerate the broadband network build in rural Ireland, once a contract(s) has been awarded.
57. Deputy Sean Sherlock asked the Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment the number of times the mobile phone and broadband task force has met; the action points that have been acted on from these meetings; the number of phone companies he has met since the task force was established; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38572/16]
View answerI am critically aware of the frustration currently being experienced across Ireland, where mobile phone and broadband networks are not always delivering the services people expect. Telecoms operators have however rolled out high speed broadband services to approximately 1.4m premises in Ireland over the last number of years, and mobile operators have invested significantly in rolling out improved services, following ComReg's multi-band spectrum auction. At least one operator now has in excess of 90% 4G population coverage. The rate of demand for data services has however increased by 500% in the last four years and this presents a continuing challenge for mobile operators, regulators and policy makers both in Ireland and internationally.
Recognising this challenge, I specifically included in the Programme for Government, a commitment to a Mobile Phone and Broadband Taskforce. In July, I established the Taskforce, together with Minister Humphreys, which aims to unlock barriers to investment in mobile and broadband services. The Terms of Reference of the Taskforce state that it will identify and recommend practical actions that can be taken to improve mobile reception and broadband access. The Taskforce and its subgroups have met approximately 20 times since July, with a number of helpful initiatives emerging in the areas of planning, local authority engagement, and consumer information and engagement.
The Taskforce involves Government Departments and agencies, as well as engagement with ComReg and telecoms operators. Minister Humphreys and I intend to bring the report of the Taskforce to Government over the coming weeks. This report will set out specific timelines for the delivery of the recommendations and actions.
Under the Programme for Government, Minister Humphreys has also established two regional action groups to work with Local Authorities, Local Enterprise Offices, LEADER Groups and other relevant agencies in helping accelerate the rollout of broadband and mobile services at local level.
In addition, I recently signed Regulations allowing ComReg to proceed with an early 2017 allocation of spectrum in the 3.6GHz radio spectrum band. This will provide an 86% increase in total spectrum available for mobile and fixed wireless services.
In my Department's estimates for 2017 I have secured an €8m provision for RTÉ to allow it to free up the 700MHz spectrum band. ComReg in turn will make plans to allocate this spectrum, to provide for significantly enhanced mobile coverage. The 700 MHz band is particularly suited to rural environments where the signal can travel long distances.
These initiatives should assist in enhancing the quality of mobile phone and data services across Ireland, and particularly in rural Ireland.
In parallel, the National Broadband Plan aims to deliver high speed services to every city, town, village and individual premises in Ireland, through private investment and a State intervention in areas where commercial investment have not been fully demonstrated.
The procurement process is underway and the three bidders in the process have indicated that they are proposing a predominantly fibre-to-the-home solution for rural Ireland. Intensive dialogue with bidders is ongoing, with a view to putting in place contract(s) that will deliver the NBP network and put Ireland to the forefront internationally in terms of connectivity.
58. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment the ten most important proposals or initiatives contemplated by his Department calculated to be of most benefit in the context of climate action and environmental protection; if specific deadlines have been agreed on these issues; if he has identified specific threats to progress in this area; the anticipated costs of action required; the costs in the event of no or insufficient action; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38636/16]
View answerIn the context of environmental protection and climate action, the Programme for Partnership Government sets out a coordinated approach to shape the long-term future of Irish environmental policy, including how we will achieve our transition to a low carbon climate resilient future. Recognising the roles of climate change plans, both mitigation and adaptation, and their interaction with the areas of energy, agriculture, transport and flood risk management, the Programme for Government identifies the key measures to be pursued on a cross-sectoral basis which also address key areas of environmental protection.
Environmental sustainability is, of course, a core principle of this Government's work and is at the heart of the policies and schemes that are implemented by my Department, particularly given Ireland's objective of achieving a low carbon, climate resilient and environmentally sustainable economy by 2050. In this regard, the important role of the Environmental Protection Agency should also be highlighted in terms of its primary responsibilities covering licensing and enforcement, and monitoring and reporting on the environment.
Within my own remit I am currently initiating a number of key priority actions which are relevant to climate action and environmental protection:
- Tomorrow I will present Ireland's first Annual Transition Statement as required under our Climate Action and Low Carbon Development Act, 2015.
- In the coming days, I intend to initiate a preliminary public consultation to inform the preparation of Ireland's first draft National Mitigation Plan so as to ensure our citizens can contribute to the process of its preparation. Economic analysis to underpin the plan is on-going and will be finalised in the Spring.
- Both of these actions I see as being key components of Ireland's National Climate Dialogue which I intend to formally launch early in 2017.
- I am also prioritising a National Adaptation Framework to ensure we address climate resilience in terms of our long term planning out to 2050. An economic framework for costing adaptation will be a key aspect of this work.
- I will shortly publish an initial consultation paper on a Clean Air Strategy for Ireland. This strategy will seek to ensure on-going compliance with EU legislation, while bringing about improved health outcomes and wider environmental benefits.
- An increased budget in 2017 of over €100m will help expand the Better Energy Scheme and introduce new measures such as the Renewable Heat Incentive. A record €25m in grants will be ring-fenced for projects that bring our communities together to engage in collective energy efficiency activity through the Better Energy Communities scheme.
- A new Public Sector Energy Efficiency Action Plan has been developed to draft stage with publication, subject to Government approval, due to take place before the end of this year.
- Significant work has taken place in the development of a new Renewable Electricity Support Scheme, with a further consultation to take place in early 2017 followed by finalisation of the scheme subject to State aid approval from the European Commission.
As Minister for the Environment, I also have responsibility for making allocations from the Environment Fund, which is ring-fenced for environmental purposes. Allocations totalling €40.5million were made from the Environment Fund in 2016 and targeted, inter alia, waste schemes, environmental research and development, the Local Agenda 21 Scheme, and support for Environmental Non-Governmental Organisations, all which have relevance for climate action and protecting our environment.
The range of actions being pursued by my Department, and other key Departments and Agencies, is evidence of the cross-Government commitment to protect Ireland's environment and manage effectively the transition to a low-carbon, climate resilient and environmentally sustainable future.
60. Deputy Mick Barry asked the Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment if he has received the report on media diversity in Ireland published by the European University Institute's Centre for Media Pluralism and Media Freedom; if he has considered recommendations in the report on the concentration of media ownership here; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38588/16]
View answerThe Competition and Consumer Protection Act 2014 gives the Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment the responsibility for assessing proposed media mergers, and empowers the Minister to prevent any merger that is deemed likely to be contrary to the public interest in maintaining the plurality of media in the State. There is no retrospective element to this legislation.
While the report referenced in the question puts forward the view that a retrospective provision should be inserted in the 2014 Act, attempting to intervene in the operation of a media business when no merger is planned would be difficult and, given that the purpose of the legislation is to safeguard media pluralism, is also likely to be counter-productive.
Applying a retrospective element to the legislation could, effectively, mean empowering a Government Minister to determine the fate of any media organisation at any given time. This would raise a number of difficult questions about preserving the freedom and independence of the press, even before one considers the legal and constitutional complexities associated with retrospective action of this kind.
An important part of the current regime is the requirement on the Broadcasting Authority of Ireland (BAI) to prepare, every three years, a report on the ownership and control arrangements of media businesses in Ireland. In June of this year, I published the first such report, the Report on Ownership and Control of Media Businesses in Ireland 2012-2014. In this report, which is available on my Department's website, the BAI concludes that there has not been a material reduction in media plurality in the State due to the limited changes in ownership and control in the period 2012-2014.
Furthermore, the international expert group Sustainable Governance Indicators ranked Ireland 9.0/10 in Media Freedom and 8.0/10 in Media Pluralism, noting that Irish media is independent, with a pluralist ownership structure.
In my view, the reforms introduced in the Competition and Consumer Protection Act 2014 have struck the correct balance in this area and are working well and, as a result, I am confident that we have a robust and effective set of measures in place to support and encourage a plural and diverse media.
61. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment if he has had discussions with the Communications Regulator regarding the quality and availability of mobile telephony with particular reference to the need to ensure the availability of good quality service in all urban and rural areas throughout the country; if action has been taken or is promised on these issues; when a reasonable standard and quality of service can be expected; if a plan exists to deal with the issue; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38635/16]
View answerThe management of radio spectrum is a statutory function of the independent regulator of the telecommunications sector, the Commission for Communications Regulation (ComReg). Licences issued by ComReg impose terms and conditions on mobile network operators, including minimum population coverage obligations. ComReg monitors compliance in this regard by means of biannual drive tests. However, given ComReg’s independence, I have no statutory function in the matter of auditing mobile coverage.
I am critically aware of the frustration currently being experienced across Ireland, where mobile networks are not always delivering the services people expect. Mobile operators have invested significantly in rolling out improved services, following ComReg's multi-band spectrum auction. At least one operator now has in excess of 90% 4G population coverage. The rate of demand for data services has however increased by 500% in the last four years and this presents a continuing challenge for mobile operators, regulators and policy makers both in Ireland and internationally.
Recognising this challenge, I specifically included in the Programme for Government, a commitment to a Mobile Phone and Broadband Taskforce. In July, I established the Taskforce, together with Minister Humphreys, which aims to unlock barriers to investment in mobile and broadband services. The Terms of Reference of the Taskforce state that it will identify and recommend practical actions that can be taken to improve mobile reception and broadband access. The Taskforce and its various subgroups has already met approximately 20 times, with a number of helpful initiatives emerging in the areas of planning, local authority engagement, and consumer information and engagement.
The Taskforce involves Government Departments and agencies, as well as engagement with ComReg and telecoms operators. I anticipate that we will bring a report to Government later this month, on foot of its work. This report will set out specific timelines for the delivery of the recommendations and actions.
Under the Programme for Government, Minister Humphreys has also established two regional action groups to work with Local Authorities, Local Enterprise Offices, LEADER Groups and other relevant agencies in helping accelerate the rollout of broadband and mobile services at local level.
In addition, I recently signed Regulations allowing ComReg to proceed with an early 2017 allocation of spectrum in the 3.6GHz radio spectrum band. This will provide an 86% increase in total spectrum available for mobile and fixed wireless services.
Furthermore, in my Department's estimates for 2017 I have secured an €8m provision for RTÉ to allow it to free up the 700MHz spectrum band. ComReg in turn will make plans to allocate this spectrum, to provide for significantly enhanced mobile coverage. The 700 MHz band is particularly suited to rural environments where the signal can travel long distances.
These initiatives should assist in enhancing the quality of mobile phone and data services across Ireland, and particularly in rural Ireland.
In parallel, the National Broadband Plan aims to deliver high speed services to every city, town, village and individual premises in Ireland, through private investment and a State intervention in areas where commercial investment have not been fully demonstrated.
The procurement process is underway and the three bidders in the process have indicated that they are proposing a predominantly fibre-to-the-home solution for rural Ireland. Intensive dialogue with bidders is ongoing, with a view to putting in place contract(s) that will deliver the NBP network and put Ireland to the forefront internationally in terms of connectivity.
62. Deputy Sean Sherlock asked the Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment the engagement he has had with his counterpart in the Northern Executive regarding an all-island approach to the agreements made in Paris regarding climate change. [38571/16]
View answerThe global response to the challenges of climate change is driven by the Paris Agreement, which entered into force last month. The Agreement has an overall goal of restricting global temperature rise to well below 2°C above pre-industrial levels, with an ambition to limit it to a 1.5°C increase above pre-industrial levels. It aims to tackle 95% of global emissions through 188 Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs).
Ireland will contribute to the Paris Agreement via the NDC tabled by the EU on behalf of its Member States, which commits to 40% reduction in EU-wide emissions by 2030 compared to 1990. The specific details of the contribution to this 40% to be made by each Member State, including Ireland and the UK, in respect of the non-ETS sector was the subject of a European Commission proposal published in July 2016. The full implications of this proposal from a domestic perspective are currently being examined.
In conjunction with the coordinated EU response to climate change, my Department also engages with the Northern Executive on a range of environmental areas, including air quality, cross-border waste management and environmental protection (including climate change). On matters relating specifically to climate change, I am aware that officials from my Department are continuing to liaise with their counterparts in Northern Ireland on a range of areas of mutual interest covering both mitigation and adaptation.
The North-South Ministerial Council, established under the Good Friday Agreement, facilitates good cooperation on environmental issues, and I look forward to continued cooperation with the Northern Ireland Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs on matters of mutual interest, as referenced in the Programme for Partnership Government.
63. Deputy Timmy Dooley asked the Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment if Ireland is on target to meet binding European Union 2020 renewable targets; the fines that will be realised if not achieved; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38594/16]
View answerI refer to the reply to Question No. 34 on today’s Order Paper.
64. Deputy Éamon Ó Cuív asked the Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment his plans to ensure universal access by all householders to high-speed mobile phone services in addition to high-speed broadband services; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38309/16]
View answerThe current EU and national regulatory framework for telecommunications allows for the application of a Universal Service Obligation in respect of fixed voice services. This framework has, in my view served consumers well over several decades and ensured that householders can get an affordable fixed voice service, regardless of where they are located.
Currently there are no universal service obligations (USO) for high speed broadband provision in Ireland and the European Telecommunications Framework does not facilitate the imposition of a high speed broadband USO. The National Broadband Plan aims to deliver high speed broadband to every premises in the country, through a State intervention in areas where such networks are not available. The winning bidder(s) in the procurement process will be required to build out a wholesale, open access, high speed broadband network. Under a 25 year contract with the Department, they will be required to connect any premises within the Intervention area that requires a high speed connection.
Thus National Broadband Plan will deliver the network which will be required, to connect all premises. While USO alone could not be expected to deliver new high speed broadband networks of this scale, I am of the view that where high speed broadband networks are available, USO could provide a very useful tool to ensure that all premises within a network area can get a connection. This is particularly relevant in cities and towns, where commercial operators have already deployed high speed networks, but for technical or other reasons, some premises still may not be able to obtain services.
I am in discussion with ComReg as to whether a universal service obligation (USO) may be a viable instrument in such instances, i.e. in areas where a high speed network is available but individual premises cannot access such services at an affordable price. This is similar to the arrangements which are already in place for fixed voice.
I have also raised the issue of a USO for high speed broadband at EU level. In September, the European Commission published an ambitious proposal for the regulation of the European telecoms sector, which aims to incentivise and encourage increased investment in high speed broadband networks. I have asked the Commission to consider a specific provision in the new framework that will allow Member States to apply a USO for high speed broadband, where such networks are available.
There are no provisions in European or national regulation for a USO in relation to mobile voice services. Mobile operators are however rolling out 3G and 4G networks across Ireland following ComReg’s 2012 Multiband Spectrum auction, with at least one operator now having over 90% population coverage of 4G services. The Mobile Phone and Broadband Taskforce is considering issues which will facilitate better delivery of mobile voice and data services. In October, I signed regulations which will allow ComReg to allocate spectrum in the 3.6GHz spectrum band. This will provide an 86% increase in total spectrum available for mobile and fixed wireless services.
In my Department's estimates for 2017 I have secured an €8m provision for RTÉ to allow it to free up the 700MHz spectrum band. ComReg in turn will make plans to auction this spectrum, to provide for significantly enhanced mobile coverage. The 700 MHz band is particularly suited to rural environments where the signal can travel long distances.
I intend to discuss with ComReg, how the allocation of spectrum in the 700MHz band could facilitate greater penetration of mobile voice and data services.
65. Deputy Mick Wallace asked the Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment his Department's definition of carbon neutrality and sustainable food production, in view of the fact that these terms are often used in tandem with each other with regard to Ireland's climate change mitigation obligations; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38614/16]
View answerThe EU and wider international position on carbon neutrality is not well developed and lacks clarity of definition at this stage.
As part of the process of defining carbon neutrality from an Irish agriculture and land use perspective, a number of scenarios are being considered and the definition ultimately approved will have to be robust on scientific, technical and environmental grounds, and compatible with present and anticipated future requirements under EU and International law.
This issue was examined by NESC in its 2012 report, "Ireland and the climate change challenge: connecting "How Much" with "How To"". Teagasc has also produced a report setting out a number of conclusions on proposed pathways towards carbon neutrality in 2050 entitled Carbon Neutrality as a horizon point for Irish Agriculture: a qualitative appraisal of potential pathways to 2050. Both these analyses will inform the definition process and ultimately feed into Ireland's mitigation planning in the future.
Regarding the definition of sustainable food production, Ireland's Food Wise 2025 agri-food strategy sets out a vision for the sustainable growth of the food production sector, in line with the European Union Council Conclusions of July 2014 on the 2030 Climate and Energy Framework. In an Irish context, environmental protection and economic competitiveness are considered as equal and complimentary. One cannot be achieved at the expense of the other. Improving productivity, while using natural resources in a manner which protects them into the future, requires on-going strong commitment from the sector to adapt through embracing and applying the latest innovations, new techniques and processes.
The extent of Ireland's challenge to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, in line with our EU and international commitments, is well understood by the Government, as reflected in the National Policy Position on Climate Action and Low Carbon Development, published in April 2014, and now underpinned by the Climate Action and Low Carbon Development Act, 2015, which was enacted in December 2015. The National Policy Position provides a high-level policy direction for the adoption and implementation by Government of plans to enable the State to move to a low carbon economy by 2050. Statutory authority for the plans is set out in the Act.
