New safeguard for Roaming Phone Users - Statement by Minister Micheál Martin, TD

New limits on bills for accessing the internet through your mobile phone when abroad will help protect Irish callers from unknowingly building up huge roaming bills, according to Minister for Foreign Affairs, Micheál Martin, TD.

“Under the new European Union rules callers can tell their mobile phone company to limit the amount they spend on internet roaming. If a limit is not put on an account by July 1st, then an automatic limit of €50 will apply.”

“A further safeguard will see callers warned when they have reached 80% of the limit.”

“The new safeguards will not only prevent people from receiving a shock bill when they return for holidays, it will also give business people a security blanket than they can avail of the full advantages of the web while keeping tab on their bills.”

“Often the cost of roaming can be confusing for people, especially in Europe where travellers and business people can frequently cross borders and unknowingly switch mobile operators.”

“I would encourage the Irish mobile phone companies to ensure that their customers enjoy the protection of these new rules and surf with confidence across the EU”, concluded Minister Martin.