STATE BODY EirGrid has been accused of taking a bullying approach in its attempt to improve the electrical network between Laois and Kilkenny.
Laois-Offaly TDs yesterday joined Laois residents protesting outside an EirGrid information day in Portlaoise over plans for an €80 million upgrade.
Members of the Ratheniska Action Group from just outside Portlaoise are worried about EirGrid’s proposal to construct a 400/110kv substation in the area, along with the planned installation of 110kv powerlines linking Laois and Ballyragget, Co Kilkenny.
Laois-Offaly TD Seán Fleming insisted the infrastructure was unnecessary in Laois.
“This is the wrong location. The essence of this project is to increase the power supply to the southeast of Ireland and the surrounding areas.
“They are bringing it off the line coming from Moneypoint in Co Clare, and I believe there is a more direct route from Clare to Kilkenny rather then bringing it up through Portlaoise, putting up a new substation in Portlaoise, and bringing a new line back down to Kilkenny.”
Sinn Féin TD Brian Stanley accused EirGrid of “behaving in a very high-handed way”. It had failed to consult properly with locals. “We believe that the scale of the project needs to be looked at again; we believe that this is an absolute monstrosity what they are planning for this area.”
Acknowledging the need for the infrastructure, Labour Senator John Whelan accused EirGrid of being dishonest and taking a cavalier approach to the project.
“They are not honest, they are not upfront, they are cavalier in their approach with communities and in fact quite hostile and bully boy in their approach, and that creates tension, it creates anxiety and fear in communities, and that is unnecessary.”
EirGrid’s senior project engineer Ray Niland claimed EirGrid was going “above and beyond” in terms of consultation.
“There has been direct face-to-face consultations with that particular group from outside as well as landowners and stakeholders. This is our second open day; we have met them at numerous meetings and conferences.
“In terms of directly talking to directly-affected landowners, we haven’t nailed down any infrastructural yet. This is what is just emerging as the best candidates. Direct liaison with directly-affected landowners will come in time.”
Ratheniska Action Group has accused EirGrid of showing “total disregard” for the local landscape, environment and the well-being of local residents. “We will do everything in our power to protect our people and our beautiful area, which we value immensely,” said Ratheniska Action Group chairman John Lowry.