Ciarán Lynch (Cork South Central, Labour)
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Question 84: To ask the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources the position regarding the North South interconnector; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16648/10]

Eamon Ryan (Dublin South, Green Party)
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The Meath-Tyrone 400 kV Interconnection Development Project comprises an 80km, 400kV Interconnector between Cavan and Tyrone, and a 58km, 400kV Power Line between Meath and Cavan. This project will deliver enhanced cross-border transmission of electricity and further strengthen links between Ireland and Northern Ireland as part of the all-island electricity market. It will facilitate the increased integration of renewable electricity and will ensure security of electricity supplies for consumers and businesses on the island and in particular in the North East region, thereby underpinning economic renewal.

This cross-border project is being developed by Ireland's national transmission system operator, EirGrid, and Northern Ireland Electricity (NIE). A planning consent application was submitted by EirGrid to An Bord Pleanála in December 2009. NIE also submitted a planning application in respect of the Northern Ireland aspects of the project, to the Northern Ireland Department of Environment Planning Service in December. Public consultation in both jurisdictions commenced earlier this year. An Bord Pleanála has scheduled an oral hearing commencing on May 10 in the Nuremore Hotel, Castleblayney, County Monaghan.