November deadline for final change of local telephone numbers

The new numbering system will be officially implemented on 1 November 2001 with a parallel, running period of six months after the launch date, during which time the old numbers will remain operational.

The details of the changes were given at the official press conference by the Comptroller and Financial Analyst of the NCA, Mr Joe Cuschieri. Mr. Cuschieri stated that these changes are being implemented as part of the liberalisation process within the Telecommunications sector. Liberalisation will create a demand for new telephone numbers and other related services.

The MCA emphasised the need to change our numbering system to one which 'harmonises' with those used in other parts of the world. Mr Cuschieri concluded by saying that this new system should have a lifespan of approximately 15 years.

The new numbering system will entail a simple change a '21' prefix will be added to the current Maltacom fixed telephony number.

For example, If the number is currently 765 7651 from November 2001 it will became 21 765 765.

Vodafone mobile numbers will also be changed. The first digit of a Vodafone mobile number will be changed from 0 to 9.

Therefore the number 0949 8888 will change to 9949 8888.

Go Mobile numbers will remain exactly the same.

New emergency numbers will also be introduced. The current emergency numbers – 191, 196, 199 – are all being replaced by 112.

The Authority has established a Freephone number, namely 0800 77 3120, that will allow the public to contact the Authority for clarification of the changes.