EIRGRID, THE body which is responsible for the State's electricity grid, has said its proposed 500 megawatt Ireland-UK interconnector poses no health risks for those living in proximity to it.
The line is to run from the British national grid at Deeside in North Wales, across the Irish Sea, and link to the Irish grid at Woodland, near Ratoath, Co Meath.
Residents in Rush are concerned at plans for the underground cables to come ashore at North Beach and travel near roadside cottages and along the Main Street on its way to Woodland.
As reported in The Irish Timesyesterday, residents have said the sleeping positions of families would be within six feet of the cable if it is approved by Bord Pleanála when an application is lodged in the near future.
EirGrid has said electromagnetic radiation from the cables will pose no danger.
John Fitzgerald, project director for the interconnector, said there were "no electromagnetic field issues for local residents in relation to the East West Interconnector. The cable will not emit any electric fields. The magnetic field surrounding the proposed cable is weak, typically the same as the earth's natural field, and the strength of the field falls off rapidly with distance from the cable."
He said "extensive engagement" had taken place with locals. "Four information days have taken place and we have answered many questions on the benefits of the interconnector and how it would be installed." Regarding people being within feet of the cable, he said: "Even directly over the cables the magnetic field will be several hundred times lower than reference levels recommended by the International Commission on Non-ionizing Radiation Protection."
Resident Paula Murray insisted many people did not know about the public consultation and were unaware of the plans until she raised the issue. She told The Irish Times she believed people were "just beginning to realise how close this will be" to homes.
EirGrid has set up a special help-line for concerned residents at 1890 36 46 56.
