Mobile Phones in Ireland
Mobile phone usage in Ireland is the largest in Europe per head of population.
A recent survey of the Irish communications market showed that there are 3.4 million mobile phones in Ireland, and the average user sends 82 text messages per month.
The choice of network providers is four:- O2 , Vodaphone, Meteor and "3"
Meteor’s share of the market is around 5% while Vodafone and 02 account for about 95% of the market. "3" are recent newcomers to the market - and only do contracts at the moment.
They all have their advantages and disadvantages and their own various pricing structures with offers of so called "free" call time etc. All BUT "3" offer pay as you go options as well as monthly tarrifs. Pay as you go is more popular in Ireland.
For a mobile phone tarrif price comparison see The ComReg website
Buying a new mobile phone is fairly straightforward – Clonmel and Thurles have a number of shops selling mobile phones with service provided by any of the above providers. Buying mobiles online is also an option.
