Communications Minister Eamon Ryan today welcomed the approval of the EU’s telecoms package by the European Council and Parliament as “a progressive step which puts the interests of the consumer to the fore”.
The main provisions of the package include:
* Measures to improve competition between telecoms operators and to ensure consistent implementation of rules across all Member States
* New rules on spectrum, including provisions for spectrum trading and leasing, so that it is used more effectively and efficiently
* Measures to promote new investment in next generation networks
For consumers it:
* Allows change of fixed or mobile phone operator within one working day and retention of existing phone numbers
* Obliges operators to provide better information in relation to services
* Requires mandatory notifications in relation to personal data breaches
* Recommends improvement of access to emergency services for those with a disability
* Ensures that restrictions on internet access will only be imposed following a fair and impartial procedure, including the right of the person concerned to be heard.
Ireland’s telecoms policy takes into account a number of the Commission’s recommendations, with a National Cyber Security strategy and spectrum policy currently being progressed. Work is also underway in improving access to emergency services, particularly for those with disabilities, as well as improving broadband access under the National Broadband Scheme.
“This package proposes the best possible measures, in terms of balancing consumer protection and competition-promotion. On the issue of data protection, it’s important that the fundamental right of internet access is upheld, while protecting the interests of copyright holders.
I look forward to the full adoption of these proposals and will work with my EU counterparts to ensure that they deliver the best outcome for Irish consumers and business.”
ENDS
Note to editors:
Full text of the Framework is available at: http://ec.europa.eu/information_society/policy/ecomm/tomorrow/index_en.htm%20MEMO/09/513