Esat BT said today that it intends to introduce Flat Rate Internet Access here from early 2003. This is subject to the successful conclusion of talks with Eircom and the approval of the Office of Director of Telecommunications Regulation, it added.
The new service will provide un-metered access to the Internet. Esat BT is hoping to provide the service for a monthly charge of €25-35, which, it says, is comparable to rates in the UK.
Bill Murphy, CEO of Esat BT, said that the introduction of Flat Rate access was long overdue.
'The message we have been getting loud and clear from industry groups, state agencies, businesses and consumer lobbying groups is that Flat Rate Internet Access is urgently required. This is the key enabler in stimulating Internet usage in Ireland to stop us falling further behind our neighbours in Western Europe,' he said.
Esat BT also today announced plans to launch NetSmart - a number of monthly, subscription-based internet options.
Three packages are available to chose from, covering light, medium and heavy internet users. NetSmart 40 (€15 a month) provides users with 40 hours of Internet access per month during evenings and weekends. NetSmart 80 (€25 a month) gives users 80 hours of Internet access during evenings and weekends and NetSmart 120 (€30) provides users with 120 hours of evening and weekend Internet access.
Last week UTV Internet launched voice and flat rate Internet services for Irish consumers.
