Labhrás Ó Murchú (Fianna Fail)

I understand RTE intends to cease its medium wave transmission service on RTE Radio 1 as and from March. I have received correspondence from Britain and I am told that if this service is withdrawn it will impact severely on the Irish community in Britain, especially on the older members of the community. These people had to leave Ireland before the Celtic tiger was born and at the same time they made a huge contribution to Ireland by sending back money at a time when it was badly needed. They still make a contribution to tourism because they come back to Ireland regularly. They have been taken for granted often and have been ignored as well. One thing they have always appreciated has been that they can keep in touch with the homeland through radio. I know from going to Britain that programmes such as "Céilí House", "Fáilte Isteach" and GAA activities are all the lifeline they have back to Ireland. Would it not be sad when the Celtic tiger is alive and well that we would take this service from them?