EIRGRID’S DEADLINE FOR for public submissions on the Gridlink project expires tomorrow, however the construction of huge electricity pylons across the country are coming under increased criticism by opposition groups.

It has been argued that the pylons – to be built as part of three projects  - are needed to service the grid and for the creation of jobs and infrastructure.

The Minister for Jobs Richard Bruton weighed in on the debate, by telling The Irish Times that the Gridlink development, which will stretch from Cork to Wexford, is crucial to regional job creation.

Controversy

The controversial project would see the construction of hundreds of kilometres of overhead power lines suspended by pylons throughout the south-east. At a number of recent public meetings across the country has resulted in Eirgrid coming in for criticism over its public consultation approach.

Those living in affected areas have voiced their concern about potential impacts on the environment, their health and property prices, with demonstrations against the building of pylons now gaining force and protest groups established all over the country.

Despite the wind and rain, a march against pylons took place at Vinegar Hill in Wexford yesterday, in what organisers said would be the first of many in their campaign

(Wexford Eirgrid Action Group Facebook Page)

In response to the Minister for Communications Pat Rabbitte stating there has to be a “trade off between the comforts of modern civilization and some element of intrusion” the group said that it is an intrusion on their health, history, culture, tourism, environment and livelihoods that is making them stand up against the development.

Submissions

Minister Rabbitte is expected to meet with the board and senior management of Eirgrid later this week to discuss submissions made. The minister has previously said that he would like to see “Eirgrid do everything it reasonably can to secure community acceptance”.

Eirgrid plans to re-submit a planning application to An Bord Pleanála in early 2014 to erect over 400 pylons across Meath, Cavan, Monaghan, Armagh and Tyrone.

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