Upgrade works will ensure that the transmission of Raidio Teilifis Eireann longwave transmitter on 252 kHz, continues for the Irish diaspora, a Fine Gael TD has said. Chair of the Oireachtas Communications Committee, Hildegarde Naughton, welcomed RTE's decision to undertake the
significant remedial works on transmission equipment which will guaranteethe continuance of the longwave service for a minimum of two years.
Deputy Naughton said: "The maintenance of long wave radio for the Irish diaspora is a significant concern to the Committee. "The UK regulator, Ofcom, will not grant RTE, as a non-UK broadcaster, the necessary licence to broadcast on digital in the UK at this time. "After engagement between
the Committee and RTE, I received a letter from the Director General of the national broadcaster committing to maintain service into the future. "The antenna upgrade requires bespoke manufacturing from a specialist supplier based in Canada and delivery of this element is expected by mid-
September.
"The relevant mast at Summerhill is 248 metres in height and is a high-risk work environment. "I am told that the weather, and more particularly wind speeds, will be the main determining factor on the
commencement and the duration of the works. "Unfortunately, once this remedial work commences, the long wave service will have to be temporarily suspended. "I understand that it will be out of commission for approximately ten weeks, but RTE has said it will endeavor to complete the works as quickly as possible. "I welcome the efforts being made to continue this service, which serves as an invaluable link between the diaspora and home. However I intend to work with the committee to explore other longer term alternative solutions to ensure this service continues," Deputy Naughton concluded.
(The SWLing Post, April 25, via Paul Rawdon DX Dialog. NZDXTimes May 2019)
(Top News 1385/31 May 2019)