Over 100 people gathered at Passage East Community Hall yesterday evening (Monday) to voice their concerns over a proposed telecommunications structure in the village.
On Tower Ireland Limited is seeking to construct an 18-meter multi-user lattice-type telecommunications support structure in Passage East.
Typically, these are used to host communication equipment for mobile phone carriers and other private providers.
Also included would be accommodation for the structure to house an antenna and dishes.
The structure if approved would be enclosed in a 2.4 metre high fenced compound, alongside associated ground equipment cabinets and associated site works.
Concerns
Several residents raised questions at the meeting with some citing health concerns, while others said it would be visually unpleasing.
Cllr. Declan Barry chaired the meeting attended by the majority of the village, as well as representation from Councillors David Daniels and Pat Fitzgerald.
The land owner where the proposed mast would be constructed was present at the meeting, where there were some heated exchanges from residents asking for the landowner to withdraw their interest to On Tower Limited.
The land owner responded saying that option is not possible at this stage, as it is now to late as an agreement is already in place.
One woman at the meeting said "We don't know what implications these structures have on our health", another questioned, "Can we look and see if a communications structure has been refused in any local authority in Ireland on the grounds of health concerns?".
A point was raised in relation to On Tower visiting the village to speak with residents to address their concerns with one woman saying this would benefit the village.
"Can we not ask On Tower to come down and go over the proposed development? Maybe that might put some of our concerns at ease.
"My concern with this development is that they can add on additional technology to the tower as the years go on."
Another raised the point saying, "Even if there are no health implications, it's the unknown. It's the psychological effect this can have on someone living so close to it."
Cllr. Pat Fitzgearld raised the point saying an independent professional needs to address the village, and not On Tower Ireland LTD.
It was agreed that a follow-up meeting would be held in due course, with outside bodies being contacted to address the residents' concerns.
A decision is due on the application on January 11th, 2025.
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