Record companies take internet provider to court

FIVE major record companies have taken legal action against an internet service provider here in a further bid to stop illegal downloading of music which they estimate costs them and performers almost €20 million a year.

The latest case, which is expected to take two weeks, is against cable operator UPC Communications Ireland Ltd, the third-biggest broadband provider here with 15% of the market and 148,000 subscribers.

Opening the case at the Commercial Court yesterday, Michael McDowell SC, for the companies, said they do not accept UPC’s claims that it is a “mere conduit” which can do nothing to prevent illegal downloading.