The construction of the North South Interconnector, and all related procurement activities, is an operational matter for EirGrid and ESB Networks and one in which I have no function.
Due to the very long lead times that can arise for a project like the North South Interconnector, EirGrid and its subsidiary counterpart in Northern Ireland, SONI, were given permission from the respective utility regulators to commence the procurement process in September 2017.
There are currently a number of on-going procurements in relation to the project being undertaken and managed by ESB Networks, such as tower design. However no critical procurement contracts such as construction will be concluded until the legal proceedings in Ireland and planning issues in Northern Ireland are resolved. The earliest possible date for construction is early 2020.