Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 9 October 2013
144. Deputy Brendan Griffin asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources if he will intervene to ensure a mobile service provider (details supplied) will provide an adequate service to paying customers in County Kerry; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42688/13]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe provision of mobile telecommunications services networks within Ireland's competitive market is subject to a requirement to secure a wireless telegraphy licence to access the required radio spectrum. The award of such licenses, the imposition of terms and conditions to access that spectrum and the associated monitoring of compliance by licensed providers with those terms and conditions are matters for the Commission for Communications Regulation (ComReg), which is independent in the exercise of its functions. Accordingly, I have no statutory function in this matter. I note however that the matter has been raised previously with ComReg and I have referred the matter again to ComReg and asked them to correspond directly with the Deputy on this matter.
I expect that with the continued significant capital investments being made by mobile operators, the quality of mobile services will continue to improve across the country. I note in this regard that Vodafone announced earlier this year, a phased programme to upgrade its network.
