Esat BT to introduce flat rate Internet access

Esat BT will introduce flat rate Internet access early next year.

The company is hoping to provide the service for a monthly charge of €25 to €35, which it says is comparable to rates in Britain.

However, the company noted the move was subject to the success of talks with eircom and the approval of the Office of the Director of Telecommunications Regulation.

As long as the meter is ticking, users will limit their time online, thus restricting their ability to fully exploit and enjoy what the Internet can deliver, Esat BT chief executive Mr Bill Murphy

Chief executive Mr Bill Murphy said the introduction of flat-rate access was long overdue. "This [the rate] is the key enabler in stimulating Internet usage in Ireland, and to stop us falling further behind our neighbours in Western Europe," he said.

"Flat Rate Internet Access is a key migration path to broadband. As long as the meter is ticking, users will limit their time online, thus restricting their ability to fully exploit and enjoy what the Internet can deliver," he said.