Mr. Cian Moloney:

We have asked about that as well as the undergrounding and we have received the same answer that is not viable. They cannot regulate the temperatures, it is slower for maintenance and I get the impression from them that if something happens along the line, they will not be able to pinpoint where it is. However, sensors can be placed along the line to pinpoint problems accurately. They are doing it sub-marine under the channels and the Irish Sea. There is no reason, particularly with the Gird Link project, they cannot go from Cork to Great Island, Wexford by sea. They are travelling to Dunnstown, outside Kilcullen, which is probably 20 km inland, at some point.

The Deputy also mentioned health issues and both sides have reports. When reports are quoted about health concerns, EirGrid will use wording such as there is no "conclusive evidence that there are health effects" or there is no "definitive data". I reiterate what he said about the precautionary principle and we should err on the side of caution regarding the health of citizens.