Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 3 December 2019
491. Deputy Brendan Smith asked the Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment the procurement processes undertaken to date by EirGrid for the proposed North-South interconnector; if departmental approval was necessary to allow procurement to proceed; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [50175/19]
Amharc ar fhreagraEirGrid 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.
