Séamus Healy (Tipperary South, Workers and Unemployed Action Group) | Oireachtas source

What we have heard from the Tánaiste is the usual EirGrid spin. The only consultation, if consultation there is, is in relation to overhead power lines. EirGrid is not prepared to consult on the issue of placing these power lines underground or under sea, which, as I said earlier, is already best international practice in this regard. There are significant health issues involved. National and international agencies have pointed to very serious doubts in relation to these overhead power lines. For example, the Irish expert report on the issue published in 2007 states that there is limited scientific evidence of an association between ELF magnetic fields and childhood leukemia and, that while this does not mean ELF magnetic fields cause cancer, that possibility cannot be excluded.

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