Finnish Government Emphasizes Need for Flexibility in Enhancing Communication Infrastructure

The Finnish government has submitted a communication to Parliament regarding a European Commission proposal for a Regulation to enhance the deployment of high-speed communication networks. While supporting the objectives of the proposal, the government stresses that Member States should have adequate leeway to accommodate national characteristics when implementing the Regulation. The government is particularly concerned about ownership of internal networks in buildings and wants to ensure the preservation of national intranet statutes. The government welcomes the idea of a centralised single-window application service for required construction work permits but feels that the proposed six-month implementation period should be increased. The communication will be considered at the Grand Committee, which will also hear the views of the relevant specialist committees of Parliament.