MOBILE PHONE operator 3 Ireland has paid a fine of €1,500 to ComReg relating to the overstatement of its quarterly subscriber numbers since 2006.

Is it the first ever fine issued by Comreg?

Though for 3 it's small change. €1.5M might be a more reasonable fine for an International Telecom Company based in Hong Kong. Hutchison Whampoa. It's hardly Petty Cash.

How many years has 3 over stated 3G coverage or been mis-selling Mobile Internet as Broadband to home users, at a cross subsidy by voice?