Denis Naughten (Roscommon-Galway, Independent) | Oireachtas source

I thank Deputies Fleming and Stanley for providing me with the opportunity to discuss this significant electricity grid enhancement project. I understand that they have been briefed by both EirGrid and ESB Networks on the matter late last week. I welcome a discussion on the topic, and I believe it to be an example of how important it is for the people of Laois and Kilkenny that their electricity supply is kept up to the expected modern standards, as well as how vigorous our planning system is.

In working towards an ever more efficient, more effective and more economic electricity network, it is necessary to carry out grid refurbishment and enhancement on an ongoing basis. In this, EirGrid and ESB Networks work in close co-operation with the ultimate goal of enhancing the national electricity grid. They work to ensure citizens have ongoing, secure access to electricity via a world class electricity infrastructure that supports Ireland's continued economic development.

The Laois-Kilkenny electricity grid reinforcement project is required to improve the security of electricity supply in the region. This €110 million investment in the area will ensure the electricity network can meet the present and future needs of all users, from homes to farms, and small businesses to industrial customers.

The Coolnabacca electricity station in County Laois is part of this project which was granted planning permission in 2014 by An Bord Pleanála. In April 2017, works started at the Coolnabacca electricity station site. It came to light that the works were proceeding without the planning conditions being discharged by Laois County Council, including the erection of a temporary pylon.

When this issue was brought to my attention by the Minister for Justice and Equality, Deputy Flanagan, I immediately contact EirGrid pointing out that this was totally unacceptable. Immediately this oversight was identified I am told that all works ceased on site. No further works will take place until the necessary planning conditions have been agreed in writing with the planning authority, which is Laois County Council. A meeting has been scheduled with the local authority for this Friday, 30 June.

The temporary pylon is required during the construction works to ensure the safety of workers on site and to maintain security of electricity supply as an existing overhead line runs close to the perimeter of the new station. Once the station is built, this temporary pylon and line diversion will be removed. I understand the pylon is on ESB land.

An application has been lodged with An Bord Pleanála for an alteration to the planning permission for this temporary pylon and both EirGrid and ESB Networks are reviewing their processes internally to ensure this does not occur in the future. Since the issue came to light, EirGrid and ESB Networks have been engaging with elected and public representatives locally to keep them informed and up to date with developments.

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