Posted on: 25th June 2025, by Alison Kerevan
I attended the ComReg “Securing the Digital Future” conference at the fantastic Croke Park on 18th June, and it was a thought-provoking day of insights from policymakers, regulators, and industry leaders. Discussions centred on the physical and cyber threats facing the telecoms sector – particularly across the EU -and what needs to be prioritised in the coming years.
The first panel explored the proposed Digital Networks Act (DNA), designed to build on the current European Communications Code and move towards a harmonised, single-market approach to spectrum policy; similar to what GDPR achieved for data protection across the EU states. However, panelists raised concerns that the challenges the DNA aims to solve are constantly evolving, with the focus moving from digital to 5G and now AI. Even if delivered as promised by the end of 2025, it may take several more years for the Act to gain real traction, by which time it risks being outpaced by new developments.
The second panel focused on resilience and cybersecurity, highlighting both physical and digital threats – a far ranging and fascinating discussion. Two points stood out: firstly, Ireland’s physical position as an vulnerable island nation makes the protection of critical infrastructure – like undersea cables – even more vital. Secondly, the comparison of Europe’s telecoms cybersecurity to “Swiss Cheese” was a sobering reminder of the gaps that still exist. So, what can be done?
Unlike the UK, operators in Ireland and across the EU are still working through how NIS2 will be interpreted and regulated in telecoms. While the detail remains in development, all on the panel agreed that the intent is clear: operators aiming for a resilient and secure business in today’s world cannot afford to wait for regulatory instruction to act. The intent of NIS2 – unsurprisingly – aligns closely with current UK legislation and regulation. Speakers strongly emphasised that security must be a board-level responsibility – this is not just an issue to be delegated to the technical department.
ComReg’s remit is expanding to reflect these growing demands, and it is working hard to attract the right talent to make it happen. The challenge will be balancing simpler, more streamlined regulation with strong leadership in key areas, in the interest of protecting Irish consumers. As Minister Patrick O’Donovan said in his keynote, the goal is “ultimately making life easier for consumers”.
Robert Mourik, ComReg Commissioner, closed the day with a stark reminder that telecoms must raise its game on cybersecurity. As cyber-attacks become a component of modern warfare, the need for secure, trusted telecoms infrastructure is more urgent than ever. He ended by reminding everyone that ComReg’s latest Strategy Statement is a transition paper, with further legislation and supporting task to follow.
With Ireland set to hold the EU Presidency from July to December 2026, there is a real opportunity to lead on this agenda. My hope, after hearing from everyone at this conference, is that we see the development of a roadmap to foster meaningful cross-border collaboration – ensuring a more secure and resilient telecoms future for the EU.