In the aftermath of Storm Éowyn, telecommunications provider Fibrus is grappling with significant service disruptions, leaving around 1,500 customers in Northern Ireland without broadband access for nearly a month.

Storm Éowyn, which struck in early January 2023, brought wind gusts exceeding 90 mph and led to the Met Office issuing its first red weather warning for the region.

During the storm, approximately 285,000 households and businesses experienced power outages, and Fibrus reported that 40,000 of its customers faced service interruptions at the storm's peak.

Davy Uprichard, a resident in the Lisburn area and one of the affected customers, expressed his frustrations with the ongoing lack of service, describing the situation as a 'complete disaster from beginning to end.' Uprichard highlighted that the disruption had forced his daughter, who typically works from home, to relocate to her sister's house in Belfast, significantly impacting family life.

Moreover, he noted that the absence of broadband has also disrupted his cider-making business, as reliable internet is crucial for filing VAT and duty returns.

Fibrus has communicated that nearly 90% of customers who lost service due to storm damage have been reconnected.

A spokesperson for the company stated, 'Our teams remain focused on getting every customer back online,' and confirmed that over 300 staff, including supporting teams from Great Britain, are actively involved in restoration efforts.

The spokesperson added that some disconnections require repairs by third parties and that they are coordinating closely with partners to resolve those issues.

Uprichard received a text from Fibrus indicating a reconnection date of January 13th, but was subsequently informed that this date had been postponed.

He remarked on the lack of visible customer service throughout the ordeal, stating that while he understands the challenges posed by extensive storm damage, better communication and support are needed.

The storm’s impact on telecommunications infrastructure has raised additional concerns regarding service reliability in the region, with ongoing repair efforts being complicated by secondary damages and the necessity for additional poling and cabling work in certain areas.

Fibrus has committed to updating customers on their estimated reconnection dates as the situation evolves.