Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 22 March 2016
560. Deputy Thomas Pringle asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources to address the issue of mobile phone coverage in rural areas particularly in the Glencolmcille and Kilcar areas in County Donegal; if he has liaised with representatives from mobile phone companies to address this matter; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5103/16]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe provision of mobile telephony services is subject to a requirement to secure access to the required radio spectrum by way of licence. The management of radio spectrum is a statutory function of the Commission for Communications Regulation (ComReg). ComReg is independent in the exercise of its functions.
Licences issued by ComReg impose terms and conditions on Mobile Network Operators, such as quality of service and minimum population coverage obligations. The design of the network is a matter entirely for the operator concerned although operators tend to exceed their minimum coverage requirements for commercial reasons. ComReg monitors compliance with licence requirements by means of bi-annual drive tests. I understand that current testing is designed to cover all primary and secondary national routes, with measurements being performed on all Mobile Networks.
Given that mobile services are a radio based technology, services can be affected by several factors including topography, the capacity of the network, data demand, and the quality of mobile phone handsets. Difficulties for service providers in erecting masts and antennas due to planning issues can also impact negatively on the quality of coverage experienced by consumers, and Local Authorities can play a strong role in supporting the roll out of telecommunications infrastructure.
In terms of improving the quality and coverage of mobile services in all areas throughout the country, there are various initiatives underway to achieve this aim. The commercial telecommunications sector has invested over €2 bn in telecommunications infrastructure and services over the last four years, and are continuing to invest. A further €850 m has being invested in acquiring spectrum under the 2012 Multi-Band Spectrum Auction run by ComReg. Since then, the mobile operators have all continued to invest in rolling out 4G and enhanced 3G services nationwide. These investments are improving both the coverage and quality of voice and data services throughout the country, although I understand that some temporary disruptions to service have been encountered when upgrades are in progress.
I am confident that with the continued significant investment being made by mobile operators, including the continued roll-out of 4G services, the quality of mobile services will continue to improve.
