Push for action on ongoing communications disruptions in Leitrim

Concerns have been raised about the continued lack of broadband, phone and mobile communication services for many people in Leitrim since Storm Éowyn on January 24.

At a meeting of Leitrim County Council, Cllr Ita Reynolds-Flynn requested the Council’s support in urging telecommunications companies, particularly Eir, to assign a local contact person to manage the numerous weekly inquiries received by representatives.

Cllr Reynolds-Flynn highlighted that many people “don’t know where to go,” and described the situation as “unnerving.”

Alternatively, she suggested that the Council executive consider appointing the broadband officer to “act as a lead” for councillors in handling issues related to the disruption of mobile and broadband networks.

In response, the Economic Development department confirmed that Leitrim County Council will request a local contact person from each major telecommunications company to address inquiries from elected members.

Storm Éowyn: Leitrim County Council reflects on unchartered territory

At a meeting of Leitrim County Council, CEO Joseph Gilhooly alongside senior management, provided a detailed breakdown of the response efforts during Storm Éowyn.

The response further clarified that, for Eir, elected members can submit queries directly to their dedicated email, which has been in place for several years.

It also explained that the role of the broadband officer within the Council is strategic, focusing on improving connectivity and promoting the use of digital technologies.

“Full time involvement in operational issues around network breakdowns is not the most effective use of the resource for the county,” the response stated.

For specific inquiries, the broadband officer has been forwarding issues to the relevant provider to follow up.

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