Sir, – Further to the recent debate concerning RTÉ’s plans to stop broadcasting on longwave, it is worth noting that in the event of a national emergency, important information concerning civil defence would be given to the public by radio as this is the most effective medium of communication for all the public, especially via battery-powered portable radios.
Neither the internet, digital radio, mobile phone nor TV services can be relied upon in an emergency due to limited access, bandwidth congestion and reception difficulties.
Many people do not possess portable digital radios but every cheap portable radio, ideal for emergency use, has either medium wave (AM) or longwave (LW), together with VHF (FM).
Longwave is unsurpassed in its ability to penetrate steel-framed buildings, deep valleys, underground carparks and rail or road tunnels, the places where the public might be expected to congregate.
It is the duty of RTÉ is to provide a public service as well as entertainment. If RTÉ wants to save money, it could consider ending TV transmissions after midnight that cater for a very limited audience. – Yours, etc,
GEORGE REYNOLDS ,
Blessington,
Co Wicklow.