Matt Carthy (Cavan-Monaghan, Sinn Fein)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

73. To ask the Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment if local communities along the route of the proposed north-south interconnector which are of the view that the project should be undergrounded will be supported; if the project will be reviewed in view of the delays that have ensued to date; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [14498/20]

Eamon Ryan (Dublin Bay South, Green Party)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

The North South Interconnector is critical to improving the efficient operation of the Single Electricity Market and increasing security of electricity supply across the island of Ireland. It will also help us to move towards 70% renewable electricity. A resilient and well connected energy infrastructure is vital for Ireland’s economic well-being and the ability to respond to the future needs of energy consumers.My Department published an independent study in October 2018 on undergrounding the interconnector. The study found that an overhead line remained the most appropriate option for the proposed interconnector. The study report is available on the Department's website at

. ​

This study was the latest in a series of studies that reached the same conclusion and whilst there have been delays in securing planning consent in both jurisdictions I do not intend to order a further review of the project.