Originally Posted by allyn274:
I just want to confirm. If I buy the O2, sim-locked, QWERTY Pre from Ireland or the UK, I'm good to go with my Rebel Sim (already on the way). Is that right?
My UK O2 Pre is working with a T-Mobile contract sim for voice and 3g data with the Rebel Sim, working consistently with no issue after a few minutes first time of finding the network.
Originally Posted by allyn274:
BTW - If anyone can be of any assistance getting the O2, sim-locked, QWERTY Pre from Ireland or the UK, I would be forever grateful. Please PM me if you can help?
Thanks thanks thanks a million! 
Try going to a Carphone Warehouse / Phones4U type of shop and offer them some money for the phone off contract. I am sure they would jump at the chance of some cash.