A review of studies into how high-voltage cables, and pylons, affect people’s health released by the European Commission was lambasted by an expert in the field who said it omitted important new studies.

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.

Up to 10,000 landowners and householders, who have formed a national alliance to fight EirGrid’s €500m pylon corridor, have said their national campaign is not short of financial backing.