190 Mr. Flood asked the Minister for the Environment and Local Government if, under planning legislation, there exist guidelines or other conditions governing the building of houses close to electrical cables carried by pylons; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13921/00]

My Department has not issued guidelines to planning authorities in relation to the building of houses close to pylons carrying electrical cables. However, I understand that for reasons of electrical safety under the 1927 Electricity Act, as amended, no one can construct a building within 25 yards – 22 metres – of an existing overhead powerline without the express consent of the ESB. In addition, any such building, including houses, would require planning permission from the relevant planning authority.