Seán Kyne (Galway West, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

Adequate grid connection is required. Senator Mulherin knows the geography of her constituency better than I but grid connection could be an issue for major projects.

Senator Leyden raised the issue of wind infrastructure. That is not the aim of the Bill, which purely addresses telecoms in regard to this specific project.

As regards compensation, €900,000 has been paid by my Department to GNI in respect of compensation payments to landowners in addition to GNI's administrative and overhead costs. The rights of landowners are hugely important because the State built infrastructure across private lands and the House will agree that those landowners deserve to be treated with respect and gratitude for their support, recognition and accommodation regarding this very important telecommunications infrastructure. The Bill, as drafted, meets that need.

I thank all Senators for their support for the Bill. I hope it will pass all Stages as soon as possible.