An independent review is to be conducted to examine the merits of routing the proposed controversial cross-border inter-connector power cables underground as opposed to erecting overhead wires.

This decision has been made after huge pressure from anti-pylon groups across the region forced the government to question Eirgrid’s plans. Many Monaghan residents are worried about the possible negative health implications and property devaluation if the power lines are to be carried on pylons.

Communications Minister, Eamon Ryan attended a meeting of the Communications, Energy and Natural Resources committee on Tuesday. Following the meeting he has demanded that an independent study be carried out before Eirgrid go any further with its plans.

Speaking after a committee meeting yesterday, Deputy Seymour Crawford TD for Cavan and Monaghan, expressed his delight at the review. “I was pleased with the assurance which Eirgrid gave to me, that they would suspend their proposals to move forward, pending the outcome of the study”.

“The Independent Study will look at the feasibility and costing of putting the inter-connector underground against overground,” added Deputy Crawford. “However, we want to make sure that the study will allow for a full consultation with the organisations that have campaigned for and demanded this as their right.”

Yesterday’s announcement has also been welcomed by Minister Ryan’s Green Party Colleague in Monaghan, Vincent P Martin. “As a local representative I am acutely aware of the fears in my community about the construction of new overhead power lines. The study will provide comprehensive, independent and empirical evidence about the other implications of such development.”

Chairman of the County Monaghan and Toome Anti-pylon committee Owen Devlin said “We are delighted to hear the minister has finally seen sense and I welcome the investigation into the viability of putting the cables underground.
“The Monaghan Anti-Pylon Group never wanted to stand in the way of progress but we would naturally be very concerned it the lines were to go over head.” He continued. “As well as the possible health risk, the lines would be a blight on Monaghan’s drumlin landscape and there are also serious concerns about the economic devaluation of the land and property close to these lines.”