People in Ireland can pay more than €5.50 for a call to directory enquiry services, that lasts just one second, according to the Consumers Association of Ireland.
The study by the CAI reports on the dramatic rise in the cost of using the phone-based directory enquiry services with prices ranging from 60 cent to €5.58.
As of last week, a one-minute call to 11811 cost €3.42 from an Eircom landline, a one-second call to 11890 cost €3.40 while a call to 11850 receiving a minimum charge of €5.58.
However, the cost can increase if the caller is connected directly to the number sought. One customer reported a charge of €19.40.
The CAI also reported that dialling from a mobile phone can substantially increase the cost of the phone call.
The organisation suggested using the free online service engines or the less well known service of 11888, which costs just 60 cent.
Nicola Byrne, Chief Executive for 11890, spoke to Chris Donoghue on Newstalk Breakfast this morning, claiming that the charge is not the same for every call:
