Martin Kenny (Sligo-Leitrim, Sinn Fein)
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156. To ask the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine if his Department has consulted with the ESB in relation to setbacks and corridors for powerlines going through forestry plantations; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13630/25]

Martin Heydon (Kildare South, Fine Gael)
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My Department officials are in regular contact with the ESB, particularly in the aftermath of Storm Éowyn. On 5^th February 2025, a decision was made by Government to request ESB Networks to develop a Winter 2025 Grid Resilience Plan.

A key component of this plan will be the requirement to safeguard the electrical network that passes through forests. In this regard ESB have engaged with my Department, Coillte, Department of Environment Climate and Communications and I understand they are also engaging with the Irish Farmers Association.

I understand that amongst other items, a commitment to review forestry setbacks and corridors in relation to the safeguarding of the electrical network will form part of the plan.