Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 9 June 2020
522. Deputy Seán Crowe asked the Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment his views on the fact that Eir remains under the universal service obligation (details supplied); and if the terms and conditions of the obligation will be reviewed before June 2021 in view of the fact some conditions such as minimum data speed are outdated. [10306/20]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe EU and national regulatory framework for telecommunications allows for the application of a Universal Service Obligation in respect of certain basic telecoms services. The current regime ensures that reasonable access requests for a home fixed line phone service and other basic communications services, such as payphones, are available to all consumers throughout the State. ComReg is charged with designating operators to deliver these services, as appropriate, and also with ensuring compliance with relevant obligations. ComReg is statutorily independent in the exercise of its functions. ComReg’s current designation of eir as the universal service provider for access at a fixed location is for the period July 2016 – June 2021. I understand that ComReg plans to commence a review of voice access at a fixed location, and what if any obligation will be applicable in this regard post 21 June 2021.
