Enda Kenny (Mayo, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I have already indicated that the legislation will be brought forward next year. In its current format EirGrid is obliged to engage in proper and meaningful consultation. The proposition for the grid around the country was made during the term of the previous Government. There is a need in all the circumstances for a rational, meaningful and proper discourse about what we are at. We cannot leave the country stranded and bereft of a power supply in terms of investment in job creation. Unfortunately, it is not possible to transmit power without cables. If we are serious about keeping Ireland in the 21st century, we should be mature enough to have a rational and common-sense discussion about what we must do. EirGrid has an obligation to consult communities meaningfully.

See this speech in context