Derry Chamber has today (08/02/06) welcomed the announcement by 02 Ireland that it is to abolish roaming charges on the island of Ireland.

Chamber Chief Executive Janice Tracey commented,

"Roaming charges have been a major cost issue for business on both parts of the island. In particular, businesses in Derry and Donegal will find this particularly beneficial for companies based in the border region. Chambers Ireland's SME eBusiness survey (published in November 2005), noted that telecommunication costs are a significant issue for SMEs. Today's announcement is a worthwhile step towards addressing this issue."

"What we need now is more Telecoms providers to follow suit, especially those UK based companies that serve NI. They need to recognise that Northern Ireland is distinct from the rest of the UK because of its land border with Ireland" she added, "and should introduce rates accordingly."