ComReg reports strong take-up of single billing

The Commission for Communications Regulation (ComReg) quarterly report, released today, shows that over 17,000 consumers have taken up "single billing" since it was launched on June 1, 2004.

Single billing allows consumers to get both line rental and calls from a phone company other than eircom.

Single billing is currently being offered by three operators; Smart Telecom, Access Telecom and Esat BT. UTV is expected to enter this market shortly.

The report also shows that total revenues for fixed, mobile and broadcasting markets now stand at an estimated €3.68bn which is up 4% on 2003.

The number of Carrier Pre-Select (CPS) lines has increased by 9.5% since the previous quarter and it now stands at 276,000 lines.

The report also shows that flat rate internet access (FRIACO) subscriptions increased by 30% from

63,100 to 81,900 during the second quarter.

Installation of DSL lines has also increased by 44% from 38,600 to 55,500 during the second quarter of 2004.

Mobile phone penetration now stands at 89% of the population. 142,000 subscribers have ported their mobile number since the introduction of Mobile Number Portability in July of 2003.

The quarterly report also includes the highlights of a survey of consumers and their attitudes to fixed and mobile phone usage, internet usage and eCommerce. The survey shows that:

* An estimated 1.2 million adults use the Internet on a regular basis

* 71% of all Internet use takes place in the home

* 42% of Internet Users have made a purchase on-line in the last three months.

ComReg chairman John Doherty said: “The increasings levels of broadband and flat rate internet take-up are both welcome and are important contributors to enhancing Ireland’s competitiveness.

"We need to build on this progress so that consumers can take advantage of the improving competition in the telecommunications market."