Irish Numbers Get Portable

DUBLIN -- The Commission for Communications Regulation (ComReg) has said thatfrom today onwards Mobile Number Portability (MNP) will be available tomobile phone users.

Mobile Number Portability is a facility where mobile customers can movebetween mobile networks and retain their full mobile number – with no cost orno inconvenience. It is being introduced to the Irish mobile market as part ofthe implementation process of the new EC Directive on Universal Service andUsers’ Rights.

ComReg said Mobile Number Portability will contribute to increasingcompetition as it enables the customer to choose to move between networks,where they will get a better deal on tariffs or services with another network,without incurring the additional cost and inconvenience of a number change.

As consumers no longer have to change their numbers there will be no inherentcost to the user and or those calling that number, who will be inconveniencedby misdials etc. In future, all mobile customers with a 085, 086 or 087 mobilenumber can be an active subscriber on the network of their choice with thatnumber.

The Chairperson of the Commission, Etain Doyle, said: "Mobile NumberPortability is about facilitating consumer choice. It removes the cost andinconvenience of moving between networks. ComReg, working with industry,has sought to facilitate consumer choice in the mobile market with a fast andconsumer friendly porting solution. International experience would suggestthat Mobile Number Portability can have a significant impact on bothconsumer behaviour and competition in the mobile market."