Farmers renew vows to block pylons

Cavan communities protesting against the proposed North South Interconnector have reaffirmed their commitment to the protest collective North East Pylon Pressure Campaign (NEPPC), writes Thomas Lyons.

The group that represents landowners affected by the planned North-South electricity interconnector has recently been given permission by the High Court to challenge An Bord Pleanála's permission for the project.

In a statement the NEPPC say that ninety five percent of landowners have authorise them to continue to represent their interests in dealings with EirGrid until 2021. The landowners have backed NEPPC’s campaign to have EirGrid’s proposed high power electricity lines put underground.
They have signed an extension for another four year period of the ‘Form of Authority’ document, authorising NEPPC to continue to represent them in all matters with EirGrid relating to the North-South interconnector project, including communications, discussions and negotiations.
East Cavan farmer Michael Farrelly says that the campaign has popular support: “There is fair unity around here. I will tell you that when EirGrid come in around here they are in for one hell of a shock. Maybe they will bring the army and the guards, but I don't know what they are going to do. They seem hell bent on their plans. They have a choice of going underground and there would be no hassle.”
Aimée Treacy, the chairperson of NEPPC said that the group are pleased with the level of local support: “Not one single landowner has changed his mind since the original signing of the Forms of Authority in 2011. In fact, many additional landowners and affected residents adjacent to EirGrid’s proposed route have come forward to also sign up the Forms of Authority in support of NEPPC. This week EirGrid has been served with over 340 Forms of Authority from landowners and residents across Meath, Cavan and Monaghan. More will follow in the coming weeks.”
Landowners have signed the Forms of Authority that states they will continue to refuse to engage in any discussions or negotiations with any EirGrid personnel.
“If I can oppose it at all it will not go through my land,” Michael says. “For me it would be a disaster. After working hard for 40 years to build up this and see EirGrid come in an put an end to it. NEPP is doing a great job for us. They are only as good as the support we give them.”
The landowners have also selected 15 ‘Underground Liaison Officers (ULOs)’ from across the three counties to ensure that a strong network of unity and support for the underground option is maintained. The ULO’s will also directly challenge any unwelcome or uninvited attempts by EirGrid’s liaison officers to visit premises’ or enter lands without permission.

Eirgrid was asked to respond to the latest development but have not done so as of yet.