Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 14 July 2026
366. Deputy Barry Ward asked the Minister for Culture, Communications and Sport the actions his Department is taking to ensure that ComReg has adequate powers in relation to redress for consumers, particularly vulnerable citizens, in cases where their telecommunications providers fail to provide services as contracted or do not comply with statutory obligations; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [52960/26]
View answerThe provision of electronic communication services such as mobile phone and broadband services, is a matter for telecoms operators who operate in a liberalised market regulated by the Commission for Communications Regulation (ComReg), as independent Regulator. ComReg is independent in the exercise of its functions in accordance with section 11 of the Communications Regulation Act 2002 (No 20/2002). ComReg is directly accountable for the performance of its functions to Committees of the Oireachtas in accordance with section 34 (2) of the Communications regulation Act 2002 (No 20/2002).
Given the importance of the electronic communications sector to both the economy and society, robust regulation of networks and services in a manner that enables investment, ensures operational resilience and trust, and appropriate consumer protection, requires a coherent regulatory approach.
There is regular engagement with ComReg to discuss a range of policy and regulatory issues, including resourcing and funding of the regulator to enable it deliver on its current and evolving statutory remit. This includes legislating to ensure there is clarity around existing and additional functions, and that relevant enforcement powers and consumer protections are in place.
Transposition of the existing European Electronic Communications Code in 2023 saw ComReg designated as the competent authority for the purpose of enforcing the Code. It provided new powers for ComReg including a new civil enforcement regime and an updated criminal enforcement procedure, the power to set minimum quality of service standards for consumers, and allows ComReg to take
interim measures where necessary and sets a higher penalty for the commission of indictable offences.
In January 2026 the European Commission published its proposed Digital Networks Act which contains a number of new policy proposals for regulating the electronic communications market. My officials are engaging with ComReg to assess whether any new powers may be required as this file is being negotiated in Brussels.
