Telecom Eireann yesterday launched its range of SkyCom satellite services which will enable Irish based companies to significantly improve their communication links with poorly serviced areas of the world such as eastern Europe.

Among the first subscribers to this service are the Departments of Defence and Foreign Affairs which will provide key voice and data communications to the headquarters of the EU Monitoring Mission in the former Yugoslavia during Ireland's presidency of the EU later this year.

. Taking time out from the launch are Mr Todd Ruelle, vice president, Orion Atlantic Satellite Corporation (centre), with Mr Tadhg Leonard, International Satellite Services, Telecom Eireann (left), and Mr Liam Collins, head of international division, Telecom Eireann.