Brendan Smith (Cavan-Monaghan, Fianna Fail)
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70. To ask the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources the outcome of any discussions he has had with EirGrid on major projects it proposes to undertake over the coming years; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5531/17]

Denis Naughten (Roscommon-Galway, Independent)
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I have met with EirGrid and have been briefed on the development of their grid development strategy, planned major projects and their work in relation to community engagement. Officials in my department are also in ongoing contact with EirGrid in relation to these matters.

As the designated Transmission System Operator, EirGrid’s role includes the operation, maintenance and development of the electricity transmission network in Ireland. As detailed in the 2012 Government Policy Statement on the Strategic Importance of Transmission and Other Energy Infrastructure, “The Government does not seek to direct EirGrid and ESB Networks or other energy infrastructure developers to particular sites or routes or technologies”. They carry out their duties independently and that is entirely appropriate.

On 26 January, EirGrid published "Ireland's Grid Development Strategy - Your Grid, Your Tomorrow" which is available on their website. This strategy is the final output of a consultative process into how Ireland's electricity grid should be developed in line with a growing economy. EirGrid first published a draft strategy in March 2015 which was the subject of public consultation which has informed the final published strategy.