Concern is being expressed that not enough notice is being given to rural Clare communities where telecommunications masts are being planned.

It follows a recent controversy in Quilty, where plans have been lodged for a 24-metre mast close to the local primary school, with locals in the area saying they have not been given a fair amount of time to oppose the development.

Now, local representatives are calling for a policy to be put in place, to ensure enough public consultation is carried out, with Clare County Council saying contact has already been made with the government on the matter.

A decision is due on the Quilty application in January and Independent Kilrush Councillor Ian Lynch says there are ways to provide the necessary infrastructure without infringing on communities: