RTÉ to retain longwave service until 2017

RTÉ has bowed to mounting public pressure and will retain a longwave radio service until 2017.

The service had been due to close in October but was extended until January 19 following a campaign by groups representing thousands of elderly emigrants who said the service was their only link with Ireland.

Over the extended transition period, RTÉ Radio 1 will operate a full longwave service next year, with reduced hours in 2016, working towards full shutdown in 2017.