The lack of affordable Internet services will impede the Republic's professional growth and culture, a new consumer organisation has warned.

Irelandoffline was set up last week in response to Esat's withdrawal of the only unmetered Internet service available in the State.

Esat, which blames excessive use by some subscribers for its decision, will formally cut off more than 2,000 of its SurfNoLimits customers next week.

Irelandoffline, which comprises individuals and some businesses, will campaign for affordable Internet access for homes and small businesses.

"We want to work with the Internet service providers [ISPs], the telecoms regulator, politicians and others who can help to bring Ireland decent Net access," said Ms Elana Kehoe, the group's spokeswoman.

"That access can range from a flat-rate service all the way up to broadband technology like ADSL and cable modems," she said.

What is available right now is far from what can be termed decent or fair, according to Ms Kehoe.

"Internet service providers consistently seem to `dumb down' Internet access, going for the lowest common denominator, instead of aiming high and getting an incredible user base," she said.

"ISPs are not looking for those who are interested in new ways of communicating. Instead, they want people who will dial up for one hour, maybe check a few websites and read their e-mail, then hang up and free up the ISP's precious modem pool," she said.

Irelandoffline can be contacted via their website at www.irelandoffline.com