Calls to certain numbers, which currently charge higher rates, are to cost less from December 1st.

A call to an 1850, 1890, 0818, or 076 number will cost no more than a call to a landline number.

These Non-Geographic Numbers (NGNs) will also be included in people's call bundles, where applicable.

If a caller does not have a call bundle or they have used it up, these calls will cost no more than calling a landline.

While calls to 1-800 numbers from both landlines and mobiles remain free.

And from January 1st 2022, the number of NGN ranges will be reduced from five to two.

All NGNs, apart from 1800 freephone and 0818 standard rate, will be withdrawn.

The 1850, 1890, and 076 NGNs will cease to be used from 2022.

A member of the public uses their mobile phone | Image: Steve Parsons/PA Archive/PA Images

The Commission for Communications Regulation (ComReg) says the lead-in period will allow organisations using these numbers to switch to new ones.

ComReg says: "With the introduction of the standardised retail tariffs (Standard Rate) for 1850, 1890, 0818, and 076 NGNs, consumers will be able to contact useful services, knowing how much it will cost to call and without the risk of unexpected charges.

"The consolidation of the NGN ranges will help to ensure that your callers have a clear understanding of what NGNs are and how to use them, helping to strengthen and grow consumer communications.

"Clearer costs of calling and a simple NGN platform will help to eliminate consumer confusion when calling NGNs."

It adds that business which advertise NGN call costs on their website or in other media should update it by December 1st.

While those that use 1850 or 1890 numbers will need to take action before January 1st 2022, as these numbers will no longer operate from this date.

More information is available for consumers by calling 01-8049-668 or e-mail consumerline@comreg.ie.

Businesses can contact ComReg on 01-8049-600 or e-mail industry@comreg.ie.