By 
MOBILE phone customers in Plumbridge and Glenelly who have been without signal since Storm Franklin may have to wait another month before reception is restored, a local MLA has claimed.
Customers have been without reception since February 19, when a mobile phone mast located in the grounds of Plumbridge livestock mart was severely damaged in flooding.
West Tyrone MLA, Declan McAleer, said, “This has left local customers with little or no coverage for the past month.
“I have been in ongoing contact with the mast operators who informed me that they are carrying out repairs and are working on a solution to prevent flood damage recurring in the future.
“I have also been told that the design solution will also involve the extension of incoming BT Fibre and input from the NI Electricity Board.”
Mr McAleer said he understood the vital importance of good mobile coverage, particularly in a dispersed rural area like the Sperrins. The MLA said, “Many people also rely on mobile 4G coverage for broadband, so the knock-on impact for home working and other online activities is huge. It could be another month before signal is fully restored.”
He added, “The mast operators have assured me that they are working as fast as possible to get this issue addressed and will provide updates to affected customers and myself as it progresses.”