Mattie McGrath (Tipperary South, Independent)
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26. To ask the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources the measures he is taking to address rural concerns regarding EirGrid's revised pylon strategy; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16199/15]

Alex White (Dublin South, Labour)
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On 27 March 2015 Eirgrid published, for public comment, a discussion paper on Ireland's grid development strategy - "Your Grid, Your Views, Your Tomorrow.". The paper underlines EirGrid’s renewed efforts to engage with stakeholders and citizens with a view to encouraging greater public participation in the organisation’s decision making. Eirgrid are seeking public comments on the discussion paper on or before 22 May 2015 and I would encourage citizens to participate.

In my engagements with Eirgrid on grid development, I have highlighted the need to address local community and rural concerns, particularly those that are focused on the building of new infrastructure. The discussion document presents an ideal opportunity for all communities, both rural and urban, to provide their views on any future development of electricity transmission infrastructure. The discussion document is consistent with EirGrid’s January 2014 commitment to address, in a comprehensive manner, issues of concern to the agriculture, equine and other sectors.

In December 2014, having carried out a review of its public consultation process, EirGrid announced details of its new approach to enhance future public engagement regarding Grid25 projects. The new approach will involve the development of a more community focussed approach on projects; developing stronger relationships with stakeholders and communities; and seeking support from public representatives and public bodies in explaining energy issues and communicating the benefits of a stronger electricity system.

As part of these changes, I am advised that Eirgrid is currently finalising specialist reports on addressing concerns relating to agriculture and equine matters and has liaised extensively with relevant key bodies and groups. I understand that those reports will be finalised shortly. I also understand that EirGrid is recruiting liaison officers with appropriate specialist expertise to follow through on its commitments. The liaison officers will be located regionally and will liaise with landowners on relevant rural concerns including agricultural and equine matters.