Vodafone and 3 to share networks

An agreement between 3 and Vodafone to share their Irish networks is expected to save the two mobile phone operators €500m.

Industry sources say the two mobile operators will save about €250m each under the strategic partnership, which will see 3 and Vodafone creating a 50/50 joint venture company to share their physical network.

The company is expected to be fully operational from the autumn and will be headquartered in Dublin, with 80 employees transferring from Vodafone Ireland and 3 Ireland to the entity.