Country Information

Country Code: . Public payphones are still found in major towns and cities, but widespread mobile usage means these are becoming less common. Private payphones can sometimes be found in hostels, bars and internet cafes. It's advisable to use a pre-paid phone card where possible.

Roaming agreements exist with a broad range of international mobile phone carriers, and coverage is good.

Internet is readily available, and internet cafés exist in nearly every town.

The national public broadcaster Radio Telefis Eireann (RTE) dominates the radio and TV sector. It provides a comprehensive service in both English and Irish. British public and private terrestrial TV acts as a rival interest. The Irish print and broadcast media operate freely within the confines of the law. Broadcasting is regulated by a commission appointed by the Department of Communications. The Competition Authority safeguards against unfair competition in the press sector. Cross-media ownership is permitted within certain limits - press groups may own up to 25% of local radio and TV stations.

There are several daily newspapers published in Dublin, including the Irish Independent and The Irish Times; The Irish Examiner is based in Cork. British dailies and Sunday papers are widely available.

An Post (www.anpost.ie) is the state-owned provider of postal services. It gives the option of a premium Express Post International service for mail going overseas.

Mon-Fri 0900-1730/1800; Sat 0900-1300. Sub-post offices close at 1300 one day a week.