Brexit proves need for Longwave radio service

THE Brexit referendum has further highlighted the importance of keeping an RTÉ Longwave radio service.

It would be most unhelpful for RTÉ to cut this vital broadcasting service to the UK when it is in Ireland's interest to be able to reach our emigrants resident there on this important issue.

The last UK census shows that 407,000 residents are Irish born, with a median age of 61.7 years. There is a high likelihood these listeners will use traditional radios - hence the importance of LW252 rather than digital.

A further five million UK residents have at least one Irish grandparent and many will use Landbridge services on family visits, for which RTÉ LW252 is the only broadcast available.

The Longwave service is vital, says Enda O'Kane of Irish Overseas Broadcasting. “It is essential that this service be retained, for both Ireland's interest and the benefit of the Irish Diaspora.”

Mr. O'Kane said there is room for improvement as some areas, including London, experience interference, particularly at night, from an Algerian station, which also broadcasts on 252. This can be resolve at almost zero cost.

Said Mr. O'Kane: “It is important to listen to the outcry that resulted when RTÉ attempted to close Radio One LW252.”