North-South interconnector may not be included in pylon review

The Minister for Energy said the North-South Interconnector may be too far advanced in its planning application, to be included in the expert panel review of pylons.

Pat Rabbitte's comments come as the Independent Pylon Review Panel meet next Monday to decide whether the grid should be included in its review of the proposed erection of pylons across the country.

The group has come in for some criticism as it doesn't include any medical expert.

The Taoiseach asked that the North South Interconnector be looked at - but Chairperson of the Group, retired Supreme Court Judge Catherine McGuinness and Minister Rabbitte say it may be too far advanced.

"It is a great deal more advanced - the planning application is ready to go in," Rabbitte said.

"There's also a great deal more urgency about North-South than there is about either of the other two elements of Grid 25."