Michael Fitzmaurice (Roscommon-Galway, Independent)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

Recently there have been serious problems where forestry is being put up. A tree will grow to 70 ft or 80 ft over 30 years. Why does ESB Networks not look for them to be 20 m or 30 m back from its power lines? In Rooskey and Kilmore in County Roscommon people have been tortured over trees falling. Obviously, the land there would not be hectic and the trees might flip over pulling the cables down. Why would ESB Networks not move in to make sure there is a proper setback distance when forestry is planted? Has ESB Networks looked at trees at the side of the road? I give credit to the ESB Networks staff whenever there is a storm. We have probably some of the best people. We send some of them to other countries to help them. In fairness they go out in tough conditions and get the power back. When will we call a spade a spade? Everyone wants to be politically correct saying that we love trees and everything. We all do, but why are a few of them not sown down the fields? Has ESB Networks ever looked at the ones that are clipping near power lines or of a certain height?