eircom today announced the appointment of Cathal Magee, Managing Director of eircom Retail as Acting CEO with immediate effect. Magee replaces Rex Comb, who is returning to Australia. The Board has a search process underway to fill the role of Chief Executive on a permanent basis.

Speaking on behalf of the eircom Board, Ned Sullivan, Chairman said, "eircom is entering a challenging period and the board has appointed Cathal to lead the organisation until the executive search has been completed. With more than 14 years of service to eircom, Cathal has extensive operational experience, a thorough understanding of the Irish telecommunication market and an awareness of the challenges facing the Group.

Sullivan continued, "I would like to thank Rex for the great work and achievements under his stewardship including the extended rollout of broadband to more than 90% of the country; the continued growth of Meteor; the implementation of the Next Generation Core Network; and the improvements to customer service. I wish Rex and his family every success upon his return to Australia."

Non-Executive Director Appointed.

Separately, Nicky Hartery has been appointed as Non-Executive Director to the eircom Board. Most recently, Mr Hartery was Executive Vice President of Dell Computers EMEA, a role he held since 2000 until 2008. He has been a senior Non-Executive Director at CRH since 2004. Previously Mr Hartery has held senior positions in Eastman Kodak, and the Verbatim Corporation. Nicky began his career at General Electric, formerly the EI Company in Shannon.

Commenting on the announcement, Ned Sullivan, Chairman eircom said "I am delighted to welcome Nicky Hartery to the eircom Board. His experience and knowledge in Irish business is first class and will be a valuable resource for the group as we face into a competitive and challenging landscape."