Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 25 May 2021
82. Deputy Ruairí Ó Murchú asked the Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications if his Department has had engagements with satellite companies on broadband connectivity; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [28228/21]
Amharc ar fhreagraProviding telecommunication services is a matter for the relevant service providers operating in a fully liberalised market regulated by the Commission for Communication Regulation (ComReg), as independent Regulator. As set out in the Programme for Government, ensuring access to high-quality internet connections for people across Ireland is essential to the development of all parts of our country, socially and economically. I recognise how vital telecommunications services are to citizens for so many aspects of their daily lives, including remote working, studying and staying in touch with family members during the Covid-19 crisis. My Department engages with operators regularly, including those providing broadband, mobile and or satellite services on a range of issues. My Department keeps appraised of new developments in the sector through numerous bilateral meetings, public consultations and a range of industry fora, including fora with satellite operators. Satellite operators and their representative groups consistently make submissions and share their views to European led fora (for example the Radio Spectrum Committee and Radio Spectrum Policy Group) and the European Conference of Postal and Telecommunications Administrations (CEPT) where the Department participates. In tandem with these European engagements, the Department regularly meets satellite operators where specific national activities or issues are of relevance.
Any increased competition in the market can only bring benefit to consumers, so as to ensure that in an increasingly connected world, nobody is left behind.
