Joe Cooney
Ceist:467. Deputy Joe Cooney asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine for clarity on the forestry setback distances from utility cables; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [40928/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraThursday, 28 May 2026
Ceisteanna (467)
Freagraí scríofa
Under Section 98 of the Electricity (Supply) Act 1927, as amended by Section 45 of the Electricity Regulation Act 1999, the ESB and its representatives, taking due care and attention to avoid unnecessary damage, are empowered to lop or cut any tree, shrub or hedge which obstructs or interferes with electrical wires or to do the same where the tree, shrub or hedge interferes with the erection or laying of any such electrical wires or with the survey of the proposed route of any transmission or distribution lines. Such works are a matter between the ESB and anyone acting on their behalf, and the landowner in question, and do not require a felling licence from my Department.
In July 2025 the Government approved the priority drafting of the Electricity (Supply) (Amendment) Bill 2025 which will enhance the resilience of the electricity grid. The purpose of this Bill is to enable proactive measures, such as the establishment and maintenance of designated forestry corridors within existing forestry. The Heads of Bill allows for the creation of Corridors up to a width of 55 metres for distribution lines and up to 74 metres for the transmission lines. The specific arrangements will be provided for in subsequent regulations. I have discussed this matter with Minister O’Brien and our Departments are engaging to find solutions that improve the resilience of the electricity network without unduly hindering the development of sustainable forestry.