Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 26 June 2019
208. Deputy Brian Stanley asked the Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment the research that has been carried out by his Department on the environmental impact of 5G technology; the body that carried out the research; the findings of the research; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [27054/19]
View answerI have no function in the matter raised by the Deputy.
The roll-out of 5G in Ireland is a matter for private mobile network operators, operating on a commercial basis. Mobile network operators function in a liberalised market in Ireland, regulated by the Commission for Communications Regulation (ComReg). The regulation of these service providers, to the extent permitted by law, is a statutory function of ComReg in accordance with the Communications Regulation Act 2002. This role includes management of the radio spectrum and the issuance of Wireless Telegraphy Licences required to operate mobile services.
The assessment of any environmental impact of the roll-out of 5G infrastructure or other types of private sector telecommunications networks and services, is a matter in the first instance for the operators concerned and secondly for planning authorities to consider through the planning permission process. I have no role in the planning process.
