DUBLIN, Ireland-Following a request by MmO2 to possibly substitute Enhanced Data Rates for Global Evolution (EDGE) for third-generation (3G) services across large parts of Ireland, Vodafone, Ireland’s largest mobile operator, has asked the industry regulator to allow it to delay the introduction of its 3G services.
Vodafone is obliged to start offering 3G services from January 2004, but the company believes it could be another 12 months or more before the extent of demand for these services becomes clear. The terms of the license have been described as incompatible with commercial reality.
Vodafone Ireland Chief Executive Paul O’Donovan this week confirmed that the company has been in contact with the Commission for Communications Regulation (ComReg) over the issue and claims that Ireland is almost the only European country where 3G license conditions have not been relaxed.
However, a ComReg spokeswoman said the circumstances in Ireland are different than those in other countries, and changing the rollout terms is not on the agenda.
