Joe McHugh (Donegal North East, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

There was public pressure and it is important that there is engagement and consultation in response to that pressure. The Minister's predecessor, Deputy Rabbitte, set up the panel to consider the options of overhead pylons versus underground lines. I encourage the Deputy to feed into the process, and his contribution today will I hope form part of that. It is a fairly tight timeframe but it is important that both options are considered.

The issue of overhead pylons and wind turbines is a difficult space. I agree that people realise that energy requirements are a practical reality and important, particularly if we are seeking to attract investment in new industry. I will take on board the Deputy's points.

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