The possession and use of radio equipment in Ireland is governed by the Wireless Telegraphy Act 1926, (Act No 45 of 1926), (as amended), which stipulates that an appropriate Wireless Telegraphy licence must be held, unless licence exempted.
ComReg is the authority charged with the authorisation of Wireless Telegraphy equipment in Ireland, with the exception of Ships Radio Licensing. An authorisation may take the form of either a licence or a licence exemption. A licence may be issued under the Wireless Telegraphy Act 1926, or under the Broadcasting Authority Act 1960, as amended (in the case of the RTÉ Authority), or under a Radio and Television Act, 1988 (in the case of Coimisiún na Meán).
In managing the radio spectrum, ComReg has set down specific rules and regulations for the possession and use of many forms of radio equipment. These regulations specify the licensing regime or exempt the radio equipment from licensing. Unlicensed or non-compliant possession or use of radio equipment is illegal, rendering offenders liable for prosecution.
ComReg aims to process, validate and complete licence applications within 35 working days, measured in average turnaround time.
For queries, please contact the licensing operations team in ComReg (tel. 01 8049600), or alternatively please send an e-mail to licensing@comreg.ie
Since May 15th 2007, the responsibility for the licensing of radio communications equipment on Irish Ships and associated Certificates of Competency has transferred to the Maritime Radio Affairs Unit of the Department of Transport & the Marine.
Please see the Department of Transport and the Marine’s Maritime Radio Affairs Unit website for full details of Ships Radio Operator Exams and Courses, Irish Ships Radio Licensing requirements and the licence application process.
Contact Details for the Department of Transport, Tourism and Sport, Maritime Radio Affairs Unit:
Phone: 01 678 3453
Fax: 01 678 3109