Changed telephone numbers will become operational in parts of seven counties on September 1st, Telecom Eireann announced yesterday. The new numbering system involves the addition of a new prefix after the area code to certain numbers. The changes will occur in parts of Cos Cork, Kerry, Clare, Meath, Cavan, Monaghan and Louth.
The changes follow the publication recently of a policy document on the matter by the Director of Telecommunications Regulation, Ms Etain Doyle. Customers whose numbers are changing will receive letters from Telecom Eireann explaining the changes, and they will also be announced in national and regional press advertisements.
From September 1st until December 5th next, the old and new numbers will run in parallel, allowing callers to use either number.
From December 5th until July 9th, 1999, people who dial the old number will hear a recorded announcement which will advise them that the number has been changed.
From July 10th, 1999, the recorded announcement will cease and only the new numbers will be operational.