Neale Richmond (Dublin Rathdown, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I very much appreciate that full update and reply regarding what is probably one of the most important projects under way between Ireland and another EU member state. It is also a project that has been going on for more than a decade now. While I appreciate the process is lengthy and that much funding has been put in place, the opportunities this presents and which similar projects could present in the future are massive.

They are vitally important, not just in terms of importing energy but also, potentially, exporting energy as we move through our own processes in generating renewals. I am well aware that, during President Macron's visit to Ireland last month, this was a big issue for both the Irish and French Governments.

My supplementary question is on the various applications that have been submitted by EirGrid to the relevant authorities. I ask the Minister to elaborate on when we expect those 450,000 people may be able to get the benefits of the Celtic interconnector? When can we feasibly expect the turning of a sod?

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