Timmy Dooley (Clare, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I welcome the opportunity to contribute to the debate and compliment Deputy Michael Moynihan on giving us all, including the Minister, an opportunity to address this issue. As the Minister will be aware from his backbenchers and communities around the country, there is very real concern and fear. Some of the fear is unfounded and not backed up scientifically. The one certainty is that the spread of these towers around the country and the cabling that will follow will significantly impact on the environmental aspect of many communities and the amenity from which so many benefit.

I have little doubt the pylons will also impact on property prices. This issue requires a great degree of consideration from EirGrid and the Government before they proceed.

Recently, the Minister indicated he intended to appoint a Mr. O'Connor, the former chairperson of An Bord Pleanála, as chairperson of EirGrid. I do not know the reasoning behind this decision, but perhaps the Minister will have an opportunity to allude to it. In the minds of many, there is a perception that Mr. O'Connor was nominated because of his unique insight and knowledge of the planning process, having headed an Bord Pleanála, the independent planning authority for 11 years. Mr. O'Connor appeared before the Joint Oireachtas Committee on Transport and Communications yesterday, where he set out his understanding of planning and his respect for the built heritage, the environment and all of that. When questioned as to whether he would exclude himself entirely from the planning process undertaken by EirGrid, he refused to confirm he would. He said he would not involve himself in the preparation of individual planning applications or in any communications with An Bord Pleanála, that he would not make any underhanded calls and would not involve himself in the various public hearings.

I have no question in regard to the integrity of Mr. O'Connor. I believe he was a fine civil servant, is a fine public servant and is a man whose reputation is beyond reproach. However, I think the Minister has made a bad call in this case. Mr. O'Connor's unique insight, his knowledge and his understanding of the planning process create the perception of an unfair advantage for EirGrid in its desire to get what it wants through the An Bord Pleanála process. This sends a negative message to the small groups of community leaders who are fighting against the goliath of EirGrid and its might, its financial standing and its capacity to have consultants and experts of all descriptions. Now, the Minister to proposes to appoint to the head of that organisation someone with a unique insight into the planning process.

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