Time for farmers to get proper compensation for ESB access

SINCE the advent of rural electrification more than half a century ago land owners have accepted the inconveniences caused by ESB poles in their fields.

Poles can hinder the operation of modern farm machinery for access must be allowed to the power lines for repairs and maintenance, land can be damaged during erection and maintenance of power lines, and there are some restrictions on land use or development where there are power lines crossing the land.

Nevertheless, there has generally been good relations between land owners and ESB officials coming on to their farms.