EirGrid pylon proposals
Micheál Martin raises widespread opposition to EirGrid’s proposed pylons and seeks assurance about its powers and consultation. The Taoiseach says legislation is planned for next year and insists meaningful consultation is required.
In communities across the country, there is deep anger and considerable concern and uproar about the EirGrid proposal to erect pylons as high as 50 m. People are concerned that pylons will be put near their homes. There are environmental concerns, and some of these areas are the most scenic in the country, such as the Comeragh Mountains. There has been a huge groundswell of opposition-----
Comment on this
The Government is committed to putting EirGrid on a statutory basis through primary legislation. The Minister Communications, Energy and Natural Resources, Deputy Rabbitte, is ploughing ahead and is determined to ignore the concerns of citizens and to be dismissive of what is being said in communities across country. Some 15,000 people marched in Waterford and there were a thousand meetings in halls up and down the country. At the moment, EirGrid is established by statutory instrument. Is the Taoiseach satisfied that it has the necessary powers to do what it is doing? In the context of the promised Bill, the EirGrid Bill, can the Taoiseach ensure there is a statutory obligation to consult meaningfully with communities across the country?
Comment on this
The legislation is listed for next year. Work has begun on it in terms of EirGrid's statutory responsibilities. I share the view of Deputy Micheál Martin that there must be meaningful and proper consultation by EirGrid and every other entity where a major development is proposed. No one can disagree with that.