MAYO based journalist Michael Commins is still beavering away at his plan to have Ireland take its place on the short wave radio bands of the world. What he would like most is to see the Government open a full time short wave station to span the earth along the lines of the BBC's World Service.
With the advent of the internet and the infinite universe of cyberspace opening up, the Government may not be inclined to go for the short wave option as a means of communication.
Still, it should take note that other countries which have been broadcasting on the short wave are retaining the facility despite the internet revolution.
Besides, it would cost very little for, Ireland to set up and run a short wave station.
Meanwhile, Michael Commins will be demonstrating the potential of short wave, and making radio history, on St Patrick's Day.
From Mid West Radio in Ballyhaunis, Co Mayo, he will be producing six hours of programming to go out on short wave, not just in Irish and English, but also in French, German, Spanish and Italian. He expects this polyphonic broadcast to cover all Europe, most of the Middle East and Africa, all of North America, possibly parts of Central and South America, and even Down Under.
Short wave devotees can catch part of the show from noon to 16.00 hours on 11715khz in the 25m band, and the rest from midnight to 2.00 hours on 7325khz in the 41m band.