THREE IRELAND IS being widely criticised for a billboard ad which is being described as transphobic.

The billboard says: “Sorry Vodafone customers It turned out he was a she after you’d used all your data”.

The text box underneath tells customers that they will not run out of data before the finale of a film they’re watching”.

However, the phone network says it was not its intention to be offensive.

@TENI_Tweets We’re sorry if you feel this ad is offensive, that was not our intention. It’s part of a wider campaign, we’re sorry for any — Three Ireland Care (@ThreeCare) July 15, 2015 Source: Three Ireland Online /Twitter

“It’s part of a wider campaign that gives examples of when you can often miss the best bits of TV/films when you’re streaming because you’ve used all your data.

“Another example in the campaign is ‘Sorry Vodafone customers, Ireland scored the winning try after you’d used all your data’.

Again, we’re sorry for any offence caused and hope this explains the concept and shows that no offence was intended at all.

Reaction

Many people have taken to Twitter to express their disgust at the ad in question, with some even adding that they will be changing network as a result.

Whoops! We couldn't find this Tweet

Some people have defended the ad and saying it’s not disrespectful.

It comes as the Gender Recognition Bill passed through the Oireachtas today, meaning trans people are now legally recognised in Ireland.