Ford Welcome's Ofcom's Plans For Auction Of 4G Spectrum

Enterprise Minister Arlene Foster has welcomed Ofcom’s decision to set regional targets to ensure that at least 95% of Northern Ireland's population will be able to access 4G mobile services.

Ofcom has announced plans for the UK's largest-ever auction of radio spectrum for mobile services. The new spectrum will facilitate the development of mobile networks providing access to the fourth generation, or 4G services, to at least 98% of people across the UK by 2017.

In addition to this UK-wide coverage obligation, Ofcom have set targets to ensure mobile operators provide the same indoor service to at least 95% of the population of each of the UK nations – England, Northern Ireland, Scotland and Wales.

Arlene Foster said: "I am pleased that Ofcom have heeded my call that all parts of the UK must be covered, with Northern Ireland having a minimum 95% coverage level.

"Regional targets are something that I and my Department have been campaigning for and I welcome the fact that Ofcom has taken our views on board. This decision recognises the unique issues that Northern Ireland has been experiencing with regard to achieving satisfactory mobile coverage.

"The auction is a crucial step in preparing for 4G mobile services and it is of significant importance to the local economy. As a direct result of the measures Ofcom is introducing, customers across Northern Ireland will be able to surf the web, stream videos and download data at much faster speeds.

"Access to fast, reliable mobile communications services is an essential to living, working and conducting business across Northern Ireland, particularly in remote and rural areas."

(CD)