Paudie Coffey (Waterford, Fine Gael)
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I welcome the witnesses from the various sectors to the meeting. We should have had the debate long ago. People have many concerns, which is the reason for today’s meeting.

My first question is for Element Power. Reference was made to a lot of land lease options that have already been made in regard to its proposals. One is with the semi-State agency, Coillte. Could someone expand on the extent of the land lease options? It was also stated that 1,000 options exist with farming families. Could some information be provided in that regard? Are the arrangements ready to go, subject to planning applications being made?

Element Power also referred to local community dividend. I hear opposing views on the matter. There is much controversy in the public domain and opposition has been voiced at public meetings. How successful is the company in promoting local community dividends? Does the company have the support of any community groups?

Element Power also mentioned that no overhead lines are associated with its projects. I find that hard to believe. Is it proposed to underground all the lines from generation, transmission, distribution and for the connection with the grid? I would like some clarification in that regard.