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The decision by Eirgrid to extend the deadline for submissions on its Grid Link Project has been described as ‘the first spark of common-sense from Eirgrid’. Photo: 123RF

The decision by Eirgrid to extend the deadline for submissions on its Grid Link Project as the first step in creating a more meaningful and effective engagement with the public, has been described as 'the first spark of common-sense from Eirgrid' by Deputy Mattie McGrath. He was speaking after Eirgrid announced that the deadline which was due to expire on Tuesday has been pushed back until 5pm on the 7th January 2014.

“This move by Eirgrid represents a significant victory for those of us who have been calling for an extension for some time. We should be under no illusions however that this signals anything but a begrudging acknowledgment by Eirgrid that the pressure that the ordinary people brought to bear on them was finally enough to make them see sense.

The Independent TD said it is imperative that this momentum is maintained and that the expanded timeframe is used to maximum effect.

"One of the chief ways in which this can be achieved is for the high level of public participation at public meetings to continue. These meetings which have been held in small villages and towns across the country have so far generated enough pressure to change the mind of a semi-state company with enormous resources at its disposal in terms of public relations; that in itself is a huge moral victory for the ordinary man and woman. Not only that however, but we have also had to contend with a Minister for Energy who has used every opportunity to voice the warped Eirgrid perspective; seen in that context this a brilliant victory for people power," concluded Deputy McGrath.

Members of the public are encouraged to make submissions to the project team in the following ways: Visit the Grid Link Project information centres (Midleton, Carrick-On-Suir, Carlow, New Ross, Kilcullen), view the route corridor maps and provide feedback to the project team.

Send written submissions by post to: The Grid Link Project Manager, EirGrid, PO Box 12213, Glenageary, Co. Dublin or email gridlink@eirgrid.com.

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