Area: Ballydesmond
Started: September 1954
Finished: February 1955
Poles used: 768
Line used (km): 66
Premises connected: 189
The figures above were sourced from our REO News magazine. Click here to find out more on what the figures mean. The map above shows the area boundary and is from a digitised version of the original map used during the scheme.
Ballydesmond contained large tracts of bog and hilly ground according to The REO News from May 1955:
This digital scan from the REO News displays the following text:
"Ballydesmond Rural Area, Co. Cork/Kerry
Ballydesmond, Mr. McCathmhaoil informs us, is not a very prosperous region containing large tracts of bog and hilly ground. Some income is derived from dairying, in general supplemented by dry stock rearing, and there is a small amount of seasonal employment in the Bord na Móna works at Barna, which is about two miles distant.
Of the original 190 acceptances, 25 were registered as backsliders. Four of the 25 had become vacant since the original canvass and most of the remainder had signed under the pressure of an over-enthusiastic local committee. New consumers totalled 86 and the net result is that 251 consumers were connected. Capital and revenue increased in approximately the same proportion and the final return was 5.3% as compared with the original figure of 5.35%. The weather was generally unkind and the natural adverse features of the terrain were supplemented by rain and snow. The report pays tribute to Supervisor J. Cahill for his handling of a labour force which was scarce but generally of good quality.
Sales amounted to £475, which is considered reasonable in light of the fact that the area is not prosperous. Main items included 2 cookers, 2 washing machines, 2 pumps, 1 welder, 1 refrigerator and a quantity of small appliances. Private contractors sold 3 vacuum cleaners, 1 cooker and a number of small appliances.
It is pleasant to note that the local committee remained in operation, and were always available when help was needed."