MLAs Discuss Mobile Network Operations

Enterprise Minister Arlene Foster has joined with three of the UK’s four main Mobile Network Operators to brief MLAs on mobile coverage in rural Northern Ireland.

The event, organised by the Mobile Operators Association, was aimed at highlighting the challenges and opportunities of providing coverage in rural areas, and to provide a platform for MLAs to discuss services in their individual constituencies.

Arlene Foster said: "This event was a useful opportunity to discuss the challenges of providing mobile coverage in rural areas. Access to mobile services in today’s environment is more important than ever. The use of hand-held devices and demands for information on the move are continuing to grow as consumers seek to access online services via mobiles."

Referring to her Department’s Telecommunications Action Plan for the period 2011-2015 the Minister continued: “In recognising the rising importance of reliable access to such services, my Department has made a commitment over the 2011-2015 budget period to work with the industry and other stakeholders to facilitate improvements in mobile coverage across Northern Ireland.

"However, we should not underestimate the challenges of providing such services, most particularly in rural areas where the combination of difficult terrain, lower than average population density and higher running costs can make investment in mobile infrastructure and services commercially unattractive. This needs to be recognised, and consideration given to how we work around these challenges.

"As an Executive we have prioritised investment in infrastructure to support economic growth and we must work, collectively, to ensure that our ambitions in this regard are achieved."

John Cooke, Executive Director of the Mobile Operators Association said: "A country’s infrastructure determines its economic prosperity and the quality of its people. In the twenty-first century, mobile telecommunications networks are an essential part of this infrastructure.

"Some 29% of people in Northern Ireland access the Internet using a mobile device - a number that’s set to grow, thanks to smartphones and tablet computers.

"We in the industry also know that here in Northern Ireland, coverage isn’t as good as it is in some other parts of the UK. We are keen to explain some of the reasons why this is; and to set out how some of the challenges might be overcome. Operators are committed to working to extend the benefits of mobile communications as widely as possible, and we welcome the priority the Executive has placed on investment in infrastructure."

(GK)