108. Deputy Darren O'Rourke asked the Minister for Climate, Energy and the Environment for an update on the North-South interconnector project; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [30279/25]

Sentiment score: 0.10

Will the Minister provide an update on the North-South interconnector project?

Sentiment score: 0.00

I am firmly of the opinion that this project will never be delivered at the current rate and if the current approach is maintained. I do not say this with any degree of satisfaction. I accept the points made by the Minister in terms of the strategic importance of it and need for it and everything that goes with that but there have been incredible delays. I foresee this continuing because at the root of it is belligerence on the part of EirGrid. I do not believe EirGrid is fit to deliver this project because it is being so belligerent and is ignoring the concerns of communities. The third report contained real criticisms of EirGrid and its approach to a cost-benefit analysis, particularly with regard to carrying out an ENTSO-E cost-benefit analysis in line with those guidelines. EirGrid has never conducted a comparison between overground and underground that holds up to international standards and the local community can see that.

Sentiment score: 0.08

We are talking past each other, which has been the difficulty. I am being straight with the Minister. It is my firm belief, as an elected Member who knows these communities, that this project is not going to proceed as currently planned. The only way I see it being delivered is underground. The 2021 review said that in the future, not only qualitative but more quantitative elements and evaluations shall be introduced in the cost-benefit analysis for the assessment of grid investment alternatives as well the operational impact of high voltage alternating current and high voltage direct current electricity cable technologies in line with ENTSO-E cost-benefit analysis guidelines. It specifically stated that EirGrid failed to adequately conduct an international standard cost-benefit analysis of overground versus underground over the full life of the project. The local communities can see that. At every hand's turn, their concerns have not been adequately addressed by EirGrid and they are fundamentally opposed to the plan as is. I do not see it being delivered overground.

Sentiment score: -0.03