TELECOM Eireann has launched new unit providing Internet accounts, to ordinary users.

While the market for Internet provision has expanded rapidly in the past two years, this is the first time that Telecom has gone into direct competition with other service providers in Ireland.

Significantly, its new Telecom Internet personal service will not attempt to undercut existing providers, rates.

The subscription charges of £12 a month (including VAT) are similar to rates charged by the main Internet service providers such as Ireland Online and Indigo.

The service's Web site (at http://www.tinet.ie) also puts a significant emphasis on its content it aims to be "the most comprehensive directory of Irish related sites anywhere in the world".

The site has short reviews of Irish Web pages in 18 categories, from arts and business to sport. The sites are rated on a scale of one to five shamrocks.

"Our objective is to make the Internet more accessible and user friendly," Telecom's chief executive, Mr Alfie Kane, said. The service will cost £12.50 for a start up kit and registration fees, with three months free subscription for new users.