Dáil Éireann debate -
Tuesday, 11 Oct 1994

Vol. 445 No. 6

Written Answers. - High Tension Cable Erection.

Enda Kenny

Question:

278 Mr. E. Kenny asked the Minister for the Marine when the ESB applied to his Department in respect of a licence to erect overhead cables for supply of electricity to an island (details supplied), the date upon which his Department responded to such an application; when the licence in question was granted to the ESB; and if he will make a statement on the matter arising from an investigation ordered by him into the drowning tragedy which occurred in Clew Bay in August 1994. [312/94]

Minister for the Marine (Mr. Andrews)

The ESB gave notice to the Department under the Electricity Acts in January 1992 of their intention to erect a high tension cable from Inishnakillew, via Moneybeg, serving Clynish Island, County Mayo.

The section of the overhead line over the main navigable channel between Moneybeg and Clynish islands was subsequently replaced with an under water cable in line with the Department's advice and following representations from local interested parties. The fatal accident on 21 August occurred outside the main navigable channel between Moneybeg and Inishnakillew.

A report by the Marine Survey Office into the accident recommended the immediate erection of warning signs at the location. This has been acted upon by the ESB. The report also recommended an urgent review of safety standards and hazard warning procedures of overhead powerlines in the vicinity of all waterways and to offshore islands. A comprehensive review of all the relevant issues is currently being finalised by a joint working group of the Department, the Department of Transport, Energy and Communications and the ESB.