The Commission for Communications Regulation (ComReg) has today welcomed the Government’s decision to appoint a preferred bidder for the provision of high-speed broadband in rural areas.
ComReg’s vision is that all consumers and businesses in Ireland should have access to affordable and high-quality communications services that support their social and economic needs.
ComReg said: “Services such as mobile communications and broadband have helped shape our lives and today we rely on them in more ways than ever before. Predictable and proportionate regulation has provided the basis for commercial investment so that high-speed broadband is available to around three-quarters of premises in the State. Despite this, not all users have benefitted equally. The availability and adoption of new networks, technologies and services has not been uniform throughout the country. There are areas of the country where investment is not commercial. The contract confirmed today aims to bring high-speed broadband to the remaining rural homes and businesses, so that they have affordable and high-quality access to communications services and applications that support their social and economic needs.”
With the Government decision in place, ComReg looks forward to supporting oversight of the programme by advising the Department of Communications, Climate Action and Environment on matters where ComReg’s technical and economic skills could add value, within its current and future remit.
ComReg will discharge its responsibilities as the independent regulator of the sector in general, including issues relating to rural broadband, such as consumer protection and access to poles and ducts. We will also continue promoting customer choice and value for money by facilitating competition, protecting consumers and encouraging innovation.
