
Telephone
It is recommended when calling Ireland from the United States that you use a prepaid phone card with favorable international rates. Otherwise, it would be in your best interest to contact your long distance carrier to inquire about calling Ireland. Often, it is possible to add discounted service for international calls for a nominal fee. These measures could save you from an unpleasant surprise when you receive your next phone bill.
Using the telephone in Ireland can be frustrating if you are not accustomed to their system. The telephone system in Ireland is fully digital but properly entering the appropriate numbers can be discouraging. However, if you dial a wrong number, you will usually hear an automated announcement advising you of the new number. The best advice would be to ask someone for assistance if you experience difficulties. Prepaid telephone cards are widely available. It is recommended that you buy a prepaid card if you plan on calling in Ireland or out of the country during your stay.
Payphones are still relatively widely available and most of them accept coins and range of major credit cards (simply follow the on screen instructions). It should be noted that because of the very high levels of penetration of mobile phones in Ireland (>100%) the major phone companies are progressively withdrawing pay phones and are only maintaining them where they are legally obliged to do so under the terms of their license.
Calls to 1-800 numbers are free and do not require a coin deposit or card at payphones, within IRL. Calls to 0800 numbers are free within Northern Ireland and do not require a coin deposit or card at payphones. Some payphones operators bar calls to 1-800 numbers, in which event you are advised to locate an "eircom" payphone.
Internet access - Wifi's available in many cafes, most hotels and also in public areas.
The following access codes are used when calling to Ireland:
- United States 011
- Britain 00
- Canada 011
The initial zero of the local code should be omitted when dialing internationally to Ireland.
The following access codes should be used when calling from Ireland:
- United States 001
- Britain 0044
- Canada 001
For emergencies in Ireland dial 999.

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