Large numbers of my constituents in Cavan–Monaghan are still without their electricity supply. Most of those people have difficulties with their telephone and broadband connectivity. Life is extremely difficult for people with health ailments and dependent on medical devices.

The major cause of the power outage in our area has been trees falling on ESB transmission lines. It is clear that the corridors for ESB lines are not being maintained to the proper standard. If they were, we would not have such problems with trees falling and with other overgrown vegetation. Over the years, through parliamentary questions, I have repeatedly asked that a vigorous inspection programme be put in place to ensure plantations owned by Coillte and private landowners are properly maintained. Very regrettably, this has not happened. These issues need to be addressed now. If a small-scale livestock farmer slightly erred in their farming practices, they would have inspections and penalties imposed. Why is it not the same for large-scale forestry plantation owners? I compliment the ESB workers and all the other front-line workers on their efforts.

I thank Deputy Smith for his commentary. One of the most immediate tasks is to ensure we have proper corridors wherever the transmission lines are. West Roscommon and Leitrim have huge issues with forests falling, or whole lines of Sitka spruce falling like dominoes onto the line. That can no longer be tolerated. We have asked the Ministers responsible – there has to be collaboration between Departments – to ensure we nail this once and for all to have clear space in order to prevent this type of thing from recurring. Then we need to go further by ensuring road safety and addressing further danger to power lines. When power lines come down, it is a huge health and safety issue for people.