Area: Drumlish
Started: March 1952
Finished: November 1952
Poles used: 1071
Line used (km): 103
Premises connected: 214
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.
The switch on ceremony in Drumlish was a most enjoyable function reports The REO News from February 1953.
This digital scan from the REO News displays the following text:
"Drumlish Rural Area, Co. Longford: Mr. G. Dunnion, R.A.E., provides the report on Drumlish Area.
The original design envisaged the supplying of 380 consumers yielding a fixed charge revenue of £2,056 p.a. at a capital cost of £28,600, i.e. a return of 7.2%. The net increase of 67 consumers brought the revenue up to £2,455, the authorised capital cost being increased to £33,400. On the face of it, this meant an improvement in the return from 7.2% to 7.34%, but Mr. Dunnion expects that he has effected a saving of approximately £900 on the capital cost, so that the actual return should increase still further.
There were 43 uncompromising backsliders which rendered one additional premises uneconomic and this, together with one vacancy, showed a total decrease of 45 consumers. As against this, 111 new consumers were gained.
Construction in the area was carried out during the critical materials period last summer and it was found necessary to commence construction in the neighbouring Mount Dillon area before Drumlish was completed. Mr. Dunnion gives due praise to the Supervisor, Mr. C. Bradley, and the chargehands, for the smooth manner in which the difficulties of keeping two areas going was handled. A fair amount of rock was encountered and in about 15% of the holes had to be blasted. Just to keep things even at 15% or so, a number of special foundations for bog also had to be provided.
Sales in the area amounted to £430, principally comprised of: 8 Cookers; 1 Washing Machine; 1 Small Motor; 1 Vacuum Cleaner and 1 Domestic Mixer. Contractors’ sales were particularly of small items, such as Irons, Kettles, etc. About 20% of the houses installed yard lighting. Mr. Dunnion is of the opinion that the area will not be fruitful as regards future sales. It is pleasant to note that wiring in a number of houses was done very swiftly, due in no small part to the efforts of the Area Organiser, Mr. Ryan.
The report concludes by reminding us of the excellent switch‑in ceremony which was held in the village of Drumlish. Indeed, the people in this area will long live in our memory as one of the most enjoyable functions we have had the pleasure of attending."