Farmers: Bury power lines no matter what the cost

Two thirds of farmers believe that the controversial Eirgrid high voltage power lines should be placed underground "regardless of the cost".

Debate has been raging about whether high voltage lines, such as the 440kV powerlines planned by Eirgrid as part of its Gridlink project from Cork to Wexford to Kildare, pose a risk to human health.

Communities objected vociferously to Gridlink last year. Locals wanted the 400kV powerline put underground, but Eirgrid initially dismissed the option, saying it would cost €2bn.