Irish retailers selling bluetooth hands-free devices say a ban by the government there has given them plenty to smile about.

Since a law was introduced to the Republic banning drivers from using mobiles, manufacturers of the much ridiculed technology have seen sales rocket.

As of last Friday any driver in Ireland found using a mobile phone while in command of a vehicle will be liable to a Eur60 fine and two penalty points. The courts may impose fines of up to Eur2,000 depending on the circumstances.

Plantronics, which make Bluetooth headsets, has noted a tenfold increase in sales through its distributors in Ireland.

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