Mark Duffy (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I thank the witnesses for their contributions. This has been very insightful and helpful to us as a committee. I hope we can make these conversations count and that we can deliver on the potential that exists, especially through the NDP.

I am from County Mayo. Mayo has played, is playing and has the potential to play a significant part in renewable energy generation. As the witnesses will be familiar with, we have the Oweninny wind farm, which I believe is the largest wind farm in Ireland. In places, the wind energy generation in Mayo is as strong as offshore, which is incredibly significant. It is important that we bring people along with us on the journey and that we communicate and make clear the net gains, the positives and the potential for our society when we do this right and do it well.

We spoke about political frustrations in the process that had been a barrier to development. EirGrid had proposed to upgrade to a 110 kV north Connacht line from Ballaghaderreen to Ballina. It was during the Covid pandemic and there was a lot of discontent because a lot of it was going to be in overhead lines. However, through good engagement, dialogue and work with the community, that was all put to bed. The community was listened to and the project is advancing very well. That is a good example. However, going back to the point regarding political obstruction, a 400 kV line was proposed over a decade ago. A 110 kV line is now being delivered as opposed to that 400 kV line. We talk about data centres being relocated and preferred in the west. The west coast has a significant role to play in harnessing renewable energy. I think of the Asahi site in Killala, which many of the witnesses will be familiar with. A transatlantic fibre optic cable lands on the site. Planning permission is in place for two data centres and there is a proposal for renewable energy biomass.

I have two questions. In reply to Deputy Byrne, Mr. Cunniffe mentioned the lack of political support. What exactly does that mean, practically speaking? Was it a local councillor or councillors? Was it Deputies? Was there a lack of vocal support for projects, which can sometimes happen? There is too much at stake for the country in terms of future investment. We need to understand that and make clear our support for these transformational projects for the countryside. I would like to understand that.

On the Mayo question, what are the constraints limiting investment and projects in Mayo? Can the witnesses give us any information on the Asahi site and grid connections for projects and proposals on that site?