Brendan Smith (Cavan-Monaghan, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

Large numbers of my constituents in Cavan–Monaghan are still without their electricity supply. Most of those people have difficulties with their telephone and broadband connectivity. Life is extremely difficult for people with health ailments and dependent on medical devices.

The major cause of the power outage in our area has been trees falling on ESB transmission lines. It is clear that the corridors for ESB lines are not being maintained to the proper standard. If they were, we would not have such problems with trees falling and with other overgrown vegetation. Over the years, through parliamentary questions, I have repeatedly asked that a vigorous inspection programme be put in place to ensure plantations owned by Coillte and private landowners are properly maintained. Very regrettably, this has not happened. These issues need to be addressed now. If a small-scale livestock farmer slightly erred in their farming practices, they would have inspections and penalties imposed. Why is it not the same for large-scale forestry plantation owners? I compliment the ESB workers and all the other front-line workers on their efforts.

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