Billy Lawless gave a great speech in the Dáil yesterday about the importance of
longwave to the Irish in Britain. He is a very strong supporter, and we are
grateful for his work.
In an encouraging response, Minister of State for
the Diaspora Joe McHugh also spoke positively of the continuing need for
longwave, noting that he was well aware of its importance:
"While any
decision on the future of long wave services in Britain is ultimately an
operational matter for RTE, it can..., as a result of the study, now be informed
by awareness of the role that the service plays in preserving and enhancing
links with Ireland and keeping our people in Britain informed of important
events and developments, such as the UK’s vote to leave the European Union and
the Irish Government’s position."
He added that the consultative group
involving RTE and representatives of the Irish in Britain would meet next week:
"A meeting of the consultative group will take place in London next week in
order to discuss the next steps, explore possible ways forward In the context of
maintaining the link with audiences in Britain, and of keeping the Irish
community involved in decision-making. I am hopeful that a positive outcome can
be achieved." (Irish Times)
