BROADBAND USERS and phone subscribers are set to benefit from a price war after Irish telecoms company Imagine unveiled tariffs up to 50 per cent cheaper than market leader Eircom.
Imagine, which launched its WiMax 4G broadband network just two weeks ago, says it can provide homeowners with a phone line and broadband access for €25 a month, 50 per cent cheaper than Eircom’s equivalent offering.
Minister for Communications Eamon Ryan, who has said the spread of affordable broadband throughout the State is one of his top priorities, yesterday welcomed the announcement of Imagine’s pricing plans. “At a time when consumers are seeking better services at a more competitive price, this latest offer is very welcome.”
For €20 a month, Imagine is offering a phone-only package with no line-rental fee; Eircom’s Talk Anytime package costs €41.16 a month. It includes unlimited calls to fixed lines in the 32 counties and Britain. The company is offering laptop users a broadband dongle – a broadband wireless adaptor – from €5 a month.
Imagine does not charge a line-rental fee, whereas Eircom currently charges homeowners €25.47 a month for line rental.
Last month, an survey ranked Ireland’s broadband penetration 16th out of 20 countries.
