O2 has become the latest mobile operator to enter the fixed-line telecoms business through a deal with Eircom. This follows a controversial move by rival Vodafone in recent months, which also signed a deal with the incumbent.
Last week, telecoms regulator ComReg (Commission for Communications Regulation) said that Eircom failed under transparency obligations to inform it or publish details about a fixed-line wholesale deal which it had done with Vodafone, enabling the mobile firm to offer fixed-line services.
Today, Ireland’s second-largest operator O2 announced that it has put together a range of fixed-line services for SMEs in the Irish market.
It said it is effectively reselling Eircom’s fixed-line services on a wholesale basis.
SMEs can choose from three bundling products offering up to 7.6Mbps broadband, at prices ranging from €26.50 to €70 per month, and including line rental and 150 minutes free calls to local, national and UK landline numbers.
“Our new range of products means we can offer SMEs a more complete communications solution across voice and broadband, at a range of competitive prices to suit their business needs,” explained Jude Lynch, sales director of O2 Ireland.
The three new packages include a Business Phone package for €26.50 a month, which includes landline, line connection, free calls to local, national and UK landline numbers, as well as a ‘smart numbers’ product that allows users to purchase bundles of mobile minutes. It will also come with a stepped rating that will result in lower call charges based on usage.
A Business Plus package for €50 will include 3Mbps broadband with unlimited download, line rental, free connection, 150 minutes free calls to local, national and UK landline numbers, fixed to mobile smart numbers and stepped rating.
A Business Bundle Plus package for €70 will include 7.6Mbps broadband with unlimited download, line rental, free connection, 150 minutes free calls to local, national and UK landline numbers, fixed to mobile smart numbers and stepped rating.
By John Kennedy
