Quinn hails progress on Mullaghbawn phone mast

Permission for the mobile phone mast was granted by Newry, Mourne and Down District Council late last year.

Work is now set to begin on the new structure, which is aimed at improving telephone signal in the village and surrounding areas.

Slieve Gullion councillor Áine Quinn said: “I welcome the news that the Mullaghbawn phone mast is moving to the final phase of the project.

“Work has already commenced on the site and it is hoped that it will be operational by the end of May.

“Ensuring local families and businesses can avail of a proper connection for mobile signal will be a game changer."

There have been many complaints over recent years over struggles by residents and businesses who have suffered due to network problems.

These were heightened and made all the more apparent during the Covid pandemic, particularly at a time when many were working from home and relied upon a decent connection.

Ms Quinn said she has been lobbying for this result for many years.

“My party colleagues and I have lobbied for improving phone signal across South Armagh for a lengthy period, and it’s great to see that works to improve this are now coming close to delivery.”

She continued: “Access to a proper phone signal is now as essential for rural communities as broadband and other modern services.

“Not only is it a key to helping local businesses thrive, but it also helps with attracting investment and promoting tourism, which is essential to grow the economy and create new jobs across South Armagh.”