MONAGHAN County Council has this week backed Transport Minister Noel Dempsey’s call for EirGrid to re-route the controversial high voltage lines underground. This news comes after yesterday’s announcement that an independent feasibility study would be carried out on the proposed projects.

Local opposition is growing across Monaghan, Cavan and Meath to the overhead pylon routes planned by EirGrid, the company charged with upgrading the country’s grid to increase a secure electricity supply.

The North East Pylon Pressure group has welcomed the announcement of an independent review but have stressed the terms of reference must be set by an independent third party. “It is essential that everyone has accurate figures on the table to identify any cost differential between overhead lines and underground cables. It is also vital that all interested groups have an input into how the feasibility study is done,” a spokesperson for the group said.

“The North East Pylon Pressure Group is fiercely opposed to the overhead high voltage power lines on many grounds ranging from health to the environment to tourism. We believe that with the support of the communities most affected, the people of County Monaghan generally and our local and national representatives, we can drive the power lines underground. The technology is there and it is simple. However, it is going to be a very tough fight.”

The North-South interconnector will be routed from a proposed new substation near Kingscourt in Cavan, through Monaghan and onwards to Tyrone. The second project is the Woodland, Meath to Kingscourt, Cavan 400kV Power Line.

EirGrid have estimated the project would be six to ten times more costly than the current €180 million cost if cables are buried. The company says it could also set a precedent for the planned nationwide grid upgrade driving costs up to a potential €6 billion from €650 million.

County Cllr Vincent P Martin has confirmed he will meet Green Party Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources Eamon Ryan Minister Ryan next week to discuss this issue.