Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 8 September 2022
65. Deputy Jim O'Callaghan asked the Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications if the Commission for Communications Regulation plan to, or is taking steps to, ensure elderly and vulnerable persons who are not users of modern technology are not penalised for still requiring paper bills from telecommunications providers; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [43345/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraI have no role or statutory function in the matter raised by the Deputy. The Commission for Communications Regulation (ComReg) is charged under statute with the promotion of the interest of users of electronic communications services, and in accordance with Regulation 16(1)(d) of the EU Framework Regulations with addressing the needs of specific social groups, including the elderly in particular.
On the issue of bills, ComReg recently published a consumer news alert on its website on the issue of paper vs paperless billing. Where a customer cannot reasonably access an alternative billing medium, they may request that they receive paper bills free of charge.
