Free Directory Enquiry Service Available to NCBI Users
Release Date: Dec 17th, 2008
As a result of a considerable lobbying campaign by NCBI (National Council for the Blind) and others, the free directory enquiries service is now available to everyone registered or registerable with NCBI, regardless of whether or not they are customers of Eircom. This represents a significant achievement since non-eircom customers have previously been denied this service, making it difficult for customers who are blind or vision impaired to switch to a different provider. The service can be accessed by dialling 196 from any landline.
CEO of NCBI Des Kenny commented “It has taken a long time but we are delighted with this step forward. People who are blind and vision impaired now have the same choice as others with regard to selecting their supplier in order to avail of the free directory enquiry service”. He added “Although at the moment, the free directory enquiry service cannot be accessed from a mobile phone, NCBI is continuing to lobby for this”.
In order to avail of this service, an individual must first register by filling in an application form. These forms are available from NCBI on 1850 33 43 53 or the Eircom Help Desk on 1800 574 574.
Part of the form must be filled in by a medical professional or NCBI representative who will provide confirmation of the individual’s vision impairment. After registering, a PIN number will be issued by post. This PIN number will be required, along with the individual’s name whenever dialling 196.
All service providers such as BT, Perlico, Smart, etc. should allow access to 196. Should you have difficulty in getting through to 196 from any landline, please report the matter to Mark Magennis, NCBI on 01 88 21 956 or by emailing mark.magennis@ncbi.ie.