Area: Portroe
Started: August 1950
Finished: February 1951
Poles used: 630
Line used (km): 60
Premises connected: 230
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 REO News from April 1951 reports that there was a radio in practically every house in Portroe
This digital scan from the REO News displays the following text:
"Portroe Rural Area: There were 29 “backsliders” in this area but on the other side of the ledger 56 additional acceptances were obtained. The nett result is that the total number of consumers has increased from 224 to 251. Mr. McNerney, R.A.E., notes that 13 of the “backsliders” were additional acceptances secured under re‑canvass conditions, and were, therefore, subject to certain doubts.
Contractors’ sales in the area were considerable, particularly with such items as Radios, Kettles and Irons. It would appear that there is a Radio in practically every house in the area. About 20 premises installed outside lights. The Area Organiser, Mr. Hickey, found sales rather difficult, the principal items disposed of being: 4 Cookers; 2 Vacuum Cleaners; 2 Irons; 1 Kettle. The view is expressed that this was caused by the fact that the demonstration was held rather early and that, therefore, sales at the demonstration were low.
At the official “switch‑on” an excellent standard of feasting and entertainment was provided and included a dance."