Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin (Cavan-Monaghan, Sinn Fein) | Oireachtas source

I had not intended to pose questions to the anti-pylon committee representative, who represents communities that I am honoured to represent along with Deputies Conlan and Smith. The deliberations of the committee subsequent to these hearings will not necessarily involve our direct input in terms of decision-making. It is important to point out that Government and Opposition voices representing all political opinions across the area represented by the anti-pylon committee are, in drawing attention to the united position not only of those who are threatened with becoming members of host communities, but also of those of all political opinions in the affected counties and certainly in the constituency I am proud and happy to represent, 100% behind the case presented both today and heretofore. This is very important because there are rarely issues in respect of which those of every opinion forge a very strong alliance. Deputy Conlan, as a Government representative, Deputy Brendan Smith, as a Fianna Fáil representative, and I, as a Sinn Féin representative, in addition to others who are unable to join us here today, will confirm that what has been presented today is not only the view of an isolated body of people who may be directly affected by EirGrid’s plans or proposals, but the view of the people of County Monaghan who most certainly feel threatened indirectly, if not directly. Each and every one of them, irrespective of where he or she is domiciled, will express full support for the position of the anti-pylon committee. Although I am not directly affected, I have only to put my mind in action and put myself in the shoes of those who are directly affected, and I have no hesitation in presenting the same analysis.

I appeal to the Joint Committee on Transport and Communications in its deliberations following this meeting and after last week's engagement with EirGrid to take that on board very seriously. It is a strength that few constituencies would have experienced on critical issues such as this. It is very important that this unified decision is reflected in the decisions this committee will take subsequently. I strongly appeal to this Oireachtas committee to reflect the same determination that has been presented here today. I commend the voices we have heard today.