Valentia Telecommunications said yesterday its offer for Eircom was unconditional, following approval by the Tβnaiste, Ms Harney. The offer will remain open for acceptance until further notice, according to a Valentia statement.

This means shareholders who have accepted the offer should receive payments of €1.365 per share in the post within 14 days. Those who have not accepted the Valentia offer should now do so now in order to receive payment as quickly as possible, despite the absence of a specific closing date.

Shareholders who choose not to act on the offer will eventually receive payment from Valentia, but this could be subject to delays. Those who have lost their offer documents or share certificates should contact the Valentia helpline on 1850 303803 from the Republic, or 353 1 2771029 from outside the Republic.

Meanwhile, Eircom has announced that a gross dividend of €0.03 per share is payable to all shareholders as of close of business yesterday. It expects the dividend to be sent to shareholders on or before November 16th.