Action required on 5G - Telecommunications Industry Ireland

Telecommunications Industry Ireland, the Ibec representative body for the telecommunications sector, today welcomed Richard Bruton T.D., Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment, as its guest speaker at the Telecommunications Industry Ireland Annual Digital Lunch 2019.

Commenting at the lunch, Shay Walsh, Chair of Telecommunications Industry Ireland, said: 

Competitiveness and 5G

“It is extremely disappointing that several county councils have passed motions opposing the rollout of 5G. We urge a prompt response to these concerns, however unwarranted. We recommend a ministerial letter to all county councils setting out the economic and social benefits of 5G and suggesting briefings to councillors by the Environmental Protection Authority (EPA) on the relevant scientific evidence. In recent days, the elected members of Cork County Council have asked for information and guidance on the available scientific evidence. It is also recommended that an expert scientific panel be convened under the aegis of the EPA to monitor on an ongoing basis the standards regarding exposure to 5G.”

National Broadband Plan

“The telecommunication industry welcomes the Government decision last week to proceed with the National Broadband Plan and the industry looks forward to working with National Broadband Ireland.”

Government Taskforce

“The Mobile Phone and Broadband Taskforce chaired by Minister Seán Canney has provided industry with a forum to engage with the relevant stakeholders on the government side regarding barriers to the rollout of telecoms infrastructure.  We urge retention of the taskforce albeit with fewer but more strategic action points and with a primary focus on network construction and the introduction of new services.”