Virgin Media already operates as a so-called virtual network operator in Ireland, offering mobile services to its own customers via Three’s network. However, Virgin Media has just a tiny customer base in Ireland, with a 2.4pc share of the voice mobile market. In 2020, Liberty Global merged its Virgin Media business in the UK with Telefonica’s O2 arm there, in a 50-50 venture. In 2021, there was speculation that Liberty Global – whose biggest shareholder is billionaire John Malone – was looking to sell Virgin Media Ireland for about €1.5bn. Telecoms firm UPC Ireland became part of Virgin Media in the UK in 2014.

Source: Irish Independent January 20, 2026 17:36 UTC