Mattie McGrath (Tipperary South, Independent)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

869. To ask the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine his views on the impact of the proposed pylons and overhead powerlines on the agriculture, livestock and blood stock industry in south Tipperary in view of the numerous studies highlighting the negative impact of overhead lines on these industries where bloodstock in particular are well known to react negatively in the vicinity of such lines; if his Department has made a submission to the Eirgrid's Gridlink Project consultation process highlighting the possible negative impact on these important industries; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [45825/13]

Simon Coveney (Cork South Central, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

Ireland is the 4^th largest breeder of thoroughbred horses in the world, and the industry makes a significant contribution to rural employment and the economy generally. I have regular contact with the sector and I can assure the Deputy that I am committed to its growth and development as a flagship industry for Ireland, including through the development of overseas markets for the sector in places like China and the Gulf States.

My Department has no function in relation to the proposed new pylons and high voltage power line, nor has it made any submission to Eirgrid’s Gridlink Project public consultation process.