Seven out of ten listeners to RTÉ longwave services aged over 60

More than seven out of ten listeners to RTÉ longwave Services in Britain are aged over 60, new research has found.

Last year, RTÉ announced it was shutting down the service, leaving Radio 1 available only on FM and digital platforms. Following objections and petitions, RTÉ agreed to continue the service until May 2017, with reduced hours in 2016.

A survey of almost 3,200 respondents carried out by the Social Policy Research Centre of Middlesex University found that just over 70 per cent of listeners are aged over 60, while a similar number of listeners were born in the Republic.

The survey also revealed that just over 60 per cent are retired. Some 76 per cent said the service “maintains a link with Ireland” while 79 per cent said they utilised it as a source of news from the Republic.

The findings also indicate that a majority of listeners have a preference for the current analogue version of RTÉ longwave services rather than via digital platforms, computers, laptops and smartphones.

While a majority of longwave listeners own a television, computer or laptop, they are less likely to own a smartphone, tablet or a DAB digital radio. Some 61 per cent felt they would need help on how to access digital radio platforms.

Minister for Foreign Affairs Charlie Flanagan said the findings demonstrated “the very significant role” the service plays in providing a link with home for many within the Irish community in Britain.

“In particular, it demonstrates the value of the service for the more elderly members of the community,” he said. “These findings also offer a strong basis from which to move forward on this issue over the period ahead and I am hopeful that a positive outcome can be achieved.”

The research was overseen by a consultative group of key stakeholders comprised of representatives from RTÉ, the Department of Foreign Affairs & Trade’s Irish Abroad Unit and the Irish community in Britain.

A further meeting of the group will take place over the coming months to “consider the research findings in detail and to discuss the next steps”.