Irish telecom company, Eir, has announced its third consecutive quarterly period of revenue growth – up 4% to €328m during the three months to December.

Revenues and operating profits for the half year period to December were up 4% and 5% respectively at €653m and €237m.

With operating costs constant, Eir says it’s on target for low single digit bottom line growth over the full year.

It’s about to implement an average price increase of €3 per month per household for bundled telecom, broadband and TV services.

The company says it expects to receive formal approval for its recent acquisition of Setanta Sports, later in the year. Its current TV service, Eir Vision, has 45,000 customers

Eir recorded storm costs of €0.5m during the quarter and these will increase in the next quarter as much of the repair costs are only being incurred now.

Chief executive officer, Richard Moat commented on the results, "During the quarter we announced the acquisition of Setanta Sports Ireland. This is a transformational opportunity for the business. It is part of our overall drive to offer great value and exciting services to our customers.

"Against the backdrop of a highly competitive market, the acquisition will deliver bottom line benefit in the future. This is subject to the necessary formal approvals, which are expected later in the financial year."