Irish mobile prices among highest in Europe

In a submission to an Oireachtas Committee, the Chairwoman of ComReg, Etain Doyle has said that Irish mobile prices are amongst the highest in Europe.

This is partly as a result of the market being dominated by Vodafone and o2, who control over 95% of the market between them.

Meteor, who entered the market late, has only 4% of the market.

Technological advances, lower subscriber costs and increased competition have led to significant reductions in retail prices across most mobile markets.

However, unlike most other markets, Irish prices declined more slowly through the late 90s but then continued to fall through 2000-2001.

This was spurred, amongst other things by Meteor’s later market entry.

The result is that although absolute reductions have been significant, on average Irish retail prices still remain amongst the highest internationally.

Figures issued by the regulator showed that prices are particularly high in the post paid sector.

Etain Doyle also discussed roaming charges which she said would have to be tackled on an international level.