Poor connectivity holding back rural communities like Cranagh - MLA

SINN Féin representatives from West Tyrone, Mid Ulster and East Derry met last week with BT/EE to raise serious concerns about the lack of mobile signal in Cranagh and surrounding areas.

Speaking after the meeting, West Tyrone MLA., Declan McAleer, said: "Cranagh is a vibrant rural farming community nestled in the heart of the Sperrins.

"While the landscape is undoubtedly beautiful, it also presents unique challenges.

"A lack of mobile connectivity in such terrain poses risks to safety, limits communication and creates daily difficulties for those who live and work there.

"Whether it's for farming, business, emergencies, or simply staying in touch with loved ones, a reliable phone signal is no longer a luxury - it's a necessity."

He continued: "The absence of consistent coverage is not only a risk to personal safety, but it's also holding back the region's tourism potential and economic growth.

"We will keep working with the relevant agencies to ensure damaged infrastructure is repaired without delay.

"At the same time, we're engaging directly with telecom providers to push for the long-overdue improvements local communities deserve.

"Sinn Féin is committed to delivering better infrastructure and reliable mobile coverage for workers, families and communities right across the Sperrins."