Eirgrid has said it will keep an open mind on the future of its Gridwest scheme after reopening the public consultation process to allow consideration of an underground option.

Doubts are emerging that the planned North-South electricity power line route will be reviewed by an expert panel, despite a pledge by the Taoiseach to disgruntled backbenchers.

A Government decision to examine the feasibility of putting two controversial powerlines underground has been described as an “election stunt” to appease backbenchers under pressure in their constituencies.

There is a belief, seemingly shared by An Taoiseach, that the 400kV GridWest project proposed by Eirgrid, aka ESB national grid, will bring much-needed electrical power to Co Mayo.