24 Samh 2020, 11:58
The Joint Committee on Transport and Communications Networks will resume its discussion on the topic of Broadband and Phone Connectivity as part of its focus on the National Broadband Plan when witnesses from Eir appear before the committee.
Following on from the appearance of National Broadband Ireland last Wednesday, matters to be considered by the committee include the roll-out of Eir fibre broadband coverage, regional and rural access to broadband, and their handling of customer requests and complaints.
The witnesses, including Eir CEO Carolan Lennon, will appear from 11.30am in Committee Room 4 (watch live).
Speaking in advance of the meeting, Committee Chair Kieran O’Donnell, TD, said:"Last Wednesday was an opportunity to discuss much of the critical infrastructure associated with National Broadband Ireland (NBI). This week we will develop further the concept of connectivity, both broadband and phone connectivity with Eir, including their on-going problems in the handling of customer requests and complaints.
“On broadband, we will be questioning Eir regarding their on-going policy on the roll-out of fibre, including to “Gap” intervention areas, which are in close proximity to their own fibre broadband network. Following our questioning of NBI last week, we will be requesting Eir to engage with NBI to priortise the roll-out of broadband fibre to these areas, involving linking into their existing adjacent fibre network.
“Swift access to high-speed broadband for communities across Ireland is essential, and the last nine months of Covid-19 restrictions have reinforced this for all sectors of our society and community, from work to education.
“From the widespread representations we have received from constituents across the country, we will be strongly raising the matter of phone connectivity and their handing of customer requests and complaints with Eir. This has been a recurring problem and customers are entitled to a satisfactory and efficient service from Eir.
Chair O’Donnell concluded: “As a committee, we are well aware that many households appear to be outside the reach of commercial operators, and some customers have experienced serious challenges as they have attempted to have customer service issues resolved. With that in mind I look forward to tomorrow’s meeting with Eir.”
For more information about the work of the Committee on Transport and Communications Networks, see the Committee webpage