Fountain vandals knock out free Wifi
LONDONDERRY community worker Jeannette Warke has appealed for an end to vandalism in and around the Fountain area after wireless devices providing free Wifi in the city centre were wrecked.
She warned that culprits may not realise it but they could be electrocuted by tampering with electrical equipment.
The Fountain Youth Club leader spoke out after equipment providing free wireless connections in the city was vandalised causing serious problems for businesses and homes across the city.
Ms Warke said: “I would call on all those engaged in this anti-social activity to think about the fact they are disrupting a vital community service, which is used by both the public and businesses alike.
“I will be addressing the issue with some of the young people and trying to raise awareness of how important this equipment is in delivering a free wireless connection. Many local people use the service so this type of behaviour is a real detriment to the local community.
“I would also warn that these are electrical devices which, if tampered with, could be extremely dangerous to anyone interfering with them.”
Wireless City Project Officer for Derry City Council, Louise Breslin, said: “The Wireless service is a real asset to the community and we have had a lot of feedback from people in the area who are now missing out because some of the hubs are out of action.
“The equipment was installed at these locations as part of the Wireless City programme which delivers wireless services to a number of local businesses, as well as residents and tourists throughout the city.
“One of its many benefits is that anyone with a wireless enabled device such as a laptop, PDA or a Smartphone can use the network free of charge for up to an hour.
“This service is essential in maintaining the city’s position at the forefront of delivering first rate digital services, and therefore it is essential that we keep this equipment in operation.”
The Wireless City project is funded by the Department of Enterprise Trade and Investment and the European Union. Interested business owners are advised to contact the Wireless City Project Officer, Louise Breslin, at Derry City Council, Tel 028 7137 6506.
For more information regarding the Wireless City Programme go to www.derrycity.gov/superconnectedderry.
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Weather for Londonderry
Tuesday 18 June 2013
Today
Sunny spells
Temperature: 10 C to 21 C
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