Ireland

The Department of Communications, Energy and Natural Resources has responsibility for the Telecommunications, Broadcasting and Energy sectors. It regulates, protects and develops the Natural Resources of Ireland.

ComReg is an organisation which has a wide range of responsibilities in telecommunications (or electronic communications services and networks as it is more accurately described), posts and spectrum management. We implement three major Acts in the arena of telecommunications, thirteen in the area of wireless telegraphy and spectrum management, and numerous statutory instruments covering all three sectors. We are responsible for promoting competition, for protecting consumers and for encouraging innovation. Our job involves dealing with complex issues of law, economics and technology, and ensuring that our decisions are taken fairly and are clearly explained. ComReg operates as a collegiate body, with decisions taken collectively by the Commissioners. We see this as important in fulfilling the spirit of the Communications Regulation Act, 2002, which established the Commission.

The Broadcasting Commission of Ireland (BCI) is an independent statutory body responsible for a number of key areas of activity with regard to television and radio services in Ireland. The role and functions of the BCI are set out in a range of provisions contained in the Radio and Television Act, 1988, the Broadcasting Act, 2001 and the Broadcasting (Funding) Act, 2003. The functions of the Commission under the 1988 Act can generally be described as licensing, monitoring and developmental work.