Area: Doneraile
Started: August 1954
Finished: April 1956
Poles used: 1778
Line used (km): 162
Premises connected: 387
The figures above were sourced from our REO News magazine, to learn more about what these figures mean, visit our interactive map. The map above shows the area boundary and is from a digitised version of the original map used during the scheme.
Some old traditions hindered progress in Doneraile according to The REO News from July 1956.
This digital scan from the REO News displays the following text:
"Doneraile Rural Area, Co. Cork: We welcome his first post construction report from Mr. J.G. Mulcahy, even though as he points out he can only claim credit for the last two months of a very protracted construction period.
Doneraile immediately brings to mind the graphic descriptions of the works of Canon Sheehan and, while many changes have occurred since the days about which he wrote, some of the old and less welcome traditions are still in evidence. One of these manifested itself with the advancement of the rural electrification networks. It was the opposition of what used to be known as the ‘gentry’ to having poles on their lands. Wayleave objections were numerous and continuous and this, added to poor quality labour and heavily wooded estates, hampered progress and increased construction costs. The final return for the area will be well below the original design figure."
This digital scan from the REO News displays the following text:
"appliances we noted 15 pressure pumps; 23 cookers; 12 washing machines and 23 kettles.
The report pays tribute to Mr. Montgomery for his sales and for his final gain of a net 80 consumers. Mr. Mulcahy also expresses his thanks to his supervisor, Mr. J.J. Bergin who regards Doneraile as the most difficult assignment he has yet had on the Scheme. All members of the crew send their best wishes to their Area Clerk, Mr. W. Morrissey, now transferred to Head Office.
It is interesting to record that local tradition claims that the first steeplechase ever, took place from steeple to steeple of the Doneraile and Buttevant churches."