Terry Brennan (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I apologise for being late. I welcome Mr. O’Connor. I have read his statement since coming in here. Many of my colleagues have spoken about consultation or lack of consultation and I endorse the view that Eirgrid’s consultation process is less than adequate. All communities, no matter in what part of the country, whether Meath, Monaghan, Cork, Wexford or Carlow, cannot be wrong in their assessment of the consultation process. Information was not forthcoming and to date is not forthcoming.

Mr. O’Connor has been chosen for this job no doubt because of his previous experience in the public service and An Bord Pleanála. I am sure he has encountered many environmental issues in his career, in scenic areas such as my area of the Ravenshill Valley where the M1 went north of Dundalk to Belfast and divided not only communities but families.

Mr. O'Connor mentioned pyrite issues and the part he has played. I have no doubt he is aware of many communities that are concerned in regard to the proposals for the infrastructure. I have to admit I believe the infrastructure is required for future generations, for jobs and for industry. If I could be personal and ask Mr. O'Connor, from his experience in An Bord Pleanála - perhaps he was asked this question but I would like to ask it again - does he have any preference at this stage for overhead versus underground? I am not challenging him on technological grounds; I am talking about the aesthetics and community concerns. Perhaps it is not a fair question for Mr. O'Connor, as chair, at this stage but can he give this committee any idea what EirGrid's preference is in regard to overhead versus underground in any part of the infrastructure proposals?