Joe McHugh (Donegal North East, Fine Gael)
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Question 513: To ask the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources his plans to establish a second energy interconnector between Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland; if a location for this interconnector has been identified; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37134/09]

Eamon Ryan (Dublin South, Green Party)
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Ireland and Northern Ireland are currently interconnected through the Louth – Tandragee tie–line (interconnector).

EirGrid and Northern Ireland Electricity (NIE), respectively, will apply for planning permission for a second North/South interconnector, which will run between Meath and Tyrone, shortly. As part of its pre-planning consultation and preparation process for An Bord Pleanála, EirGrid considered three potential routes for the project, and consulted on these routes. In April 2009 following a review of all project documentation, including consultants' studies, reports, and consultation feedback, EirGrid nominated its final "preferred route" (Route Corridor A) and commenced discussions with landowners. The details of Route Corridor A are available on EirGrid's website (www.eirgrid.com) and I have also asked EirGrid to send these details directly to the Deputy.