Is my copper phone line being switched off in Ireland, and what happens to my contract?
Copper networks are old and harder to maintain, and fibre is gradually replacing them. On fibre, landline calls go over the internet (VoIP): your handset plugs into the modem, and your provider should supply the equipment needed to keep your landline working.
Many countries are replacing old copper phone lines with fibre. Where an official plan exists, it sets how much warning you get and what happens to your contract; the plan for Ireland is below.
📜 The rules in Ireland
The switch-off plan
There is no national copper switch-off date. Switch-off happens exchange area by exchange area, under a switch-off proposal that ComReg must first approve (Decision D09/23, 1 November 2023).
The details
- Care alarms, personal or security alarms and fax machines connected to your landline may need to be replaced or reconfigured to work on a VoIP service. (comreg.ie)
- In a power cut a VoIP landline stops working, unless the network still has power and your modem runs on a battery backup. A mobile phone is another way to stay reachable. (comreg.ie)
- Under ComReg Decision D09/23, copper is switched off area by area, normally once all premises in scope are passed by modern networks. The forecast date must be published to providers and ComReg at least 12 months ahead. (comreg.ie)
- Check which broadband networks are available at your address with ComReg's free Broadband Checker (address or Eircode). (comreg.ie)
ComReg Consumer Care Team
Takes up your complaint with the provider if it has not acknowledged it, has not replied within 10 working days, or you are unhappy with its reply.
🪜 Step by step
- Find out what your line isYour contract or provider can tell you whether you are on copper, cable or fibre.
- Watch for a letterCustomers on lines that will be switched off are normally told in advance. Keep the letter.
- Compare your optionsYou may be offered fibre or another connection. Compare price, term and speed before you accept.
- Check special equipmentAlarm systems, emergency call devices and old phones may need to be adapted. Ask before the switch.
📇 Who to contact
Sponsor this page → One labelled block, €100 a month. Founding price €75 until 31 January 2027.
❓ Questions
Do I have to move to fibre?
When the copper line is switched off, you need another connection to keep your service. Which options you have depends on your address.
Does the switch cost me anything?
That depends on the plan and on the offers you get. Ask for any offer in writing.
Will my landline number still work?
Usually yes: you can normally keep your number on the new connection. Ask your provider.
📎 Sources
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