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North-South Interconnector

Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 23 July 2019

Tuesday, 23 July 2019

Questions (2286, 2287)

Brendan Smith

Question:

2286. Deputy Brendan Smith asked the Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment if EirGrid sought approval for procurement for the proposed North-South interconnector from the regulator in Northern Ireland in the full knowledge that no planning permission had been granted at that time; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [34069/19]

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Brendan Smith

Question:

2287. Deputy Brendan Smith asked the Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment his views on the commencement of the procurement process for the proposed North-South interconnector in view of the fact that planning permission had not been granted in Northern Ireland; his views on whether the full planning approval process should have been finalised before procurement commenced; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [34070/19]

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Written answers

I propose to take Questions Nos. 2286 and 2287 together.

EirGrid is the designated Transmission System Operator and its role includes the operation, maintenance and development of the electricity transmission network in Ireland. 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.

I am advised that due to the very long lead times that can arise in relation to projects of this nature and the benefits of a single joint procurement process to be undertaken and managed by ESB Networks, EirGrid sought approval from the regulators in Ireland and Northern Ireland to commence procurement. Following this approval, in September 2017 ESB Networks commenced a number of procurement processes in relation to the project.

In June 2019 ESB Networks awarded a framework contract for the design, test and supply of steelwork in relation to the project. However under this framework there will be no supply of materials and no critical procurement process for construction will be concluded until the planning process in Northern Ireland is complete

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