Directory Hub

The Printed Phonebook Directory

Is there a printed phonebook?

Since 2019, printed phonebook directories have been discontinued.

How do I look up a phone number I’d like to call?

You can search phone numbers for free by doing an internet search or by using an online directory.

Business phone numbers are usually easy to find online. Personal numbers are less likely to appear unless the owner has chosen to share them publicly.

What other way can I find a phone number?

You can contact a directory enquiry service but be aware that these services often come with high call charges.  See directory enquiry services to find out more.

How can I use directory enquiry services if I have a vision impairment?

If you have a vision impairment or have difficulty reading, directory enquiry services can be accessed free of charge by dialling ‘196’.

You will have to register to use this service by calling the Freefone number 1800 574 574 or complete the registration form available on Eir’s website.  Our sign language video explains this process more.

The National Directory Database

What is the National Directory Database (NDD)?

The National Directory Database (NDD) is a record of phone numbers in Ireland that includes both landline and mobile phone numbers, but only if the owner has agreed to be included.  These numbers can be published in an online directory or provided through directory enquiries.

The NDD includes consumers’ preferences on whether they want to:

• be listed in online phone directories and directory enquiry services
• be contacted by direct marketing companies

What are the different directory listings?

There are two options for directory listings:

Listed	Your details (name, address, phone number) are shared with online directories and directory enquiry services
Ex-directory	Your details (name, address, phone number) are not shared with online directories or directory enquiry services

Can I change my directory listing?

Yes.  You can contact your service provider to update your listing and choose how you want your details to appear in the NDD.

How do I stop direct marketing calls?

The NDD manages the opt-out list, that lets consumers choose to stop receiving direct marketing calls, in line with the e-Privacy Regulations. It is the Do Not Call Register.

If your home phone number is on the NDD Do Not Call Register, companies in Ireland are not allowed to call you for marketing reasons.

If your home phone number is ‘ex-directory’, your number is automatically set to not receive marketing calls, unless you’ve given permission.

Mobile numbers are automatically opted out, so marketers in Ireland can’t call your mobile for marketing unless you’ve agreed. You can change this by contacting your mobile provider.

What types of marketing calls are there?

Marketing calls come from companies you’ve given permission to contact you, or from direct marketing companies.

If you give a company your phone number, for example after buying a product or service, entering a competition or requesting a brochure, they may contact you, even if you’re on the NDD Do Not Call Register.  That’s because you’ve agreed to be contacted.

• An unsolicited call is a call that you didn’t ask for.
• Cold calling is when a company calls you without your permission to try to sell you something or offer a service. It is a type of unsolicited call.

The rules in this area only apply to direct marketing calls. So, for example, if a company calls you to ask you to take part in a survey, this is not prohibited.

What happens when my number is on the Do Not Call Register?

If your number is on the NDD’s Do Not Call Register, marketing companies in Ireland are not allowed to call you.

When you tell your service provider that you don’t want marketing calls, they’ll update your preference in the NDD. This can take up to 5 working days.

Marketing companies must check the NDD and avoid calling any numbers on the Do Not Call Register.

What if I receive marketing calls after opting out?

If you’ve asked not to receive marketing calls and your number is on the Do Not Call Register, or if a company calls you more than 28 days after you told them to stop, you can complain to the Data Protection Commission.

They can investigate and take action if needed. For more information, visit the Data Protection Commission’s website . ComReg also has an enforcement role in certain circumstances.

Who looks after the NDD?

Since 1 July 2024, the NDD has been managed by PXS.  They will manage the NDD for a period of 3 years. For more details, see ComReg Decision D19/24.

Information for Direct Marketers

If your company wants access to the NDD, you should contact PXS, the website has further details.

 

Directory Enquiry Services

What is a directory enquiry service?

A directory enquiry service helps you find the number of a person or business that’s listed in the National Directory Database (NDD).

How do I recognise a directory enquiry number?

Directory enquiry numbers begin with 118 and are five digits long for example 118XX.

How much does it cost to use a directory enquiry service?

Directory enquiry services can be quite expensive, especially if you choose to be connected to the number you’re looking for.

The cost can vary depending on:

• which directory enquiry service you call
• your own service provider
• whether you’re calling from your home or mobile phone

A directory enquiry charge will usually include:

• a connection cost, and
• the cost per minute, or
• the cost per call

If you choose to be connected directly to the number, called onward call connection (see below), the cost of your call may be much higher.

For example, a 5 minute call from your home phone through a directory enquiry service with onward call connection could cost up to €23.94 with VAT.

To avoid high charges, it’s a good idea to try finding the number online or through another free source.

What is an onward call connection?

This is when the directory enquiry agent offers to connect you directly to the number you asked for. If you agree, the entire call will be charged at the directory enquiry service’s cost per minute rate.  This can be expensive.    It is known as onward call connection or call completion.

How can I keep the cost down?

• Ask the agent for the number but say that you don’t want the call to be connected.
• End the call once you’ve been given the number.
• If you’re using a mobile, check if they can text you the number instead. It might be cheaper.
• Costs may also vary depending on your service provider or phone plan, so check if one directory service is cheaper than another.

How can I find out more about directory enquiry costs?

You can speak with your service provider.

What if I have a complaint about a directory enquiry service?

A complaint relating to directory enquiry services should be raised as a complaint to your service provider. If they don’t resolve the issue, you can contact the directory enquiry service directly.  They are responsible for handling complaints about their service.