RTÉ, Ireland’s national broadcaster, has announced its decision to stop its longwave 252 kHz service from 27th January 2021. This move comes as part of the station’s broader strategy to transition towards digital platforms and improve the quality of its broadcasting services. The decision has stirred up some controversy among listeners who rely on this service. However, the change could pave the way for future technological advancements and more accessible media services. In this article, we’ll explore the reasons behind RTÉ’s decision and the potential impacts it might have on listeners.
RTE, the national broadcaster of Ireland, recently announced that it will be terminating its long wave 252 service from next month. The move came after the station had been airing on the same bandwidth for over 90 years, originally broadcasting to the UK, but now largely listened to by Irish expats living in the UK.
According to RTE, the decision to cut the long wave service was made due to the high cost of running the long wave transmitter and the low number of people listening to it in recent years. The station also stated that the bandwidth is becoming increasingly difficult to maintain, with many audio manufacturers no longer making equipment that is compatible with it.
While the move has been criticised by some, others have welcomed the decision, stating that the service is outdated and that the cost of maintaining it is becoming too expensive. RTE has assured listeners that they will still be able to hear their favourite shows through a variety of other platforms, such as DAB radio, FM, and online.
The closure of the long wave service has been met with a mixed response from the public, with many expressing their disappointment, while others have welcomed the move as a necessary one. In particular, those who have been campaigning for the station to be shut down have praised the decision, stating that the transmission was no longer serving a viable purpose, and that the money spent on it could be better used elsewhere.
It is important to note that the move away from long wave is not unique to RTE. Many other broadcasters around the world have also moved away from this form of transmission, with digital radio and online platforms becoming increasingly popular.
However, for many listeners, the closure of the long wave service is the end of an era. The station has been broadcasting since 1926 and has become an important part of many people’s lives. It was able to reach remote areas that were not covered by other forms of radio, and it provided entertainment and news for a wide variety of listeners.
The station’s closure represents a shift in the way that people consume media, with traditional forms of radio slowly being replaced by newer technologies. While it is sad to see the long wave service go, it is a sign of the times and a reflection of the changing ways in which we consume news and entertainment.
In conclusion, the closure of RTE’s long wave 252 service marks the end of an era for many listeners. While there is no denying that the service has become outdated and expensive to maintain, it still holds a special place in the hearts of many people. As we move towards a future where digital radio and online platforms are becoming increasingly popular, it is important that we continue to recognise the role that traditional radio has played in our lives, and the contributions that it has made to society as a whole.
In conclusion, RTÉ’s decision to discontinue the longwave 252 service marks the end of an era for many listeners. While it may come as a disappointment to some, the move highlights the evolution of technology and the shift towards digital platforms. RTÉ’s focus on new and innovative ways to engage with its audience displays an unwavering commitment to delivering high-quality programming. As we bid farewell to longwave 252, it’s important to remember the fond memories and experiences it brought us. At the same time, we eagerly look forward to what the future holds for RTÉ and its listeners.
