EXHIBIT 23.1


               CONSENT OF INDEPENDENT CERTIFIED PUBLIC ACCOUNTANTS


We consent to the incorporation by reference in the Registration Statement (Form
S-3 No. 33-58607) and in the related  prospectus of Peoples  Telephone  Company,
Inc., and in the Registration Statements (Forms S-8 Nos. 33-58603 and 333-40793)
pertaining to stock option and incentive plans of Peoples Telephone Company Inc.
of our  report  dated  February  27,  1998,  with  respect  to the  consolidated
financial statements and schedule of Peoples Telephone Company, Inc. included in
the Annual Report (Form 10-K) for the year ended December 31, 1997.


                              /s/ ERNST & YOUNG LLP



Miami, Florida 
March 27, 1998