1922: The Department of Post and Telegraphs is set up by the Free State government.

1984: Department divided into two State-owned companies, Telecom Éireann and An Post.

1991: Scandal engulfs Telecom Éireann over its purchase of a site in Ballsbridge, Dublin. Chairman Dr Michael Smurfit resigns after Taoiseach Mr Charles Haughey says "certain people should step aside".

1998: Telecom Eircom staff get 15 per cent of company in return for backing privatisation.

1999: The company launches its IPO in July . Later that month it is unveiled as sponsor of the FAI's state-of-the-art new ground. Eircom Stadium was never finished (or even started).

2000: Shares in Eircom slump to a record low in May amid a worldwide telecoms downturn. There is widespread disgruntlement among shareholders.

2001: In March Eircom shuts its internet publishing division Rondomondo, which employed 35. In May it sells its mobile phone division, Eircell, to Vodafone for €3.6 billion.

The deal sees Eircom shareholders receive Vodafone shares.

In November, Valentia Telecommunications buys all remaining shares in Eircom for €3 billion. Eircom is de-listed and later registered as a private company.

Chief executive Mr Alfie Kane leaves the company with a €3.8 million pay-off

2003: The company reorganises its corporate structure through a bond offering and refinancing of senior facilities in July.