Damien English (Meath West, Fine Gael)

The Tánaiste was dismissive of the matter. It is unfair to place these power lines without proper discussion. There are two Bills planned, the electricity (transfer of transmission assets) Bill and the electricity regulation (EirGrid) (amendment) Bill. If they were brought forward we could have a serious debate. People's health deserves such a debate.

These power lines will be in the north east but will have a national effect. It is only right and fair that the House has a proper debate on the benefits of putting these cables underground. We should at least analyse data and cost, which could be done under those two Bills. Proper decisions should be made in this House on people's health.

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