A public inquiry into the proposed north south interconnector is to be reconvened.

However, Sinn Féin is urging the Environment Minister to take on board the opposition from local communities to overhead power cables along the interconnector.

Cathal Boylan MLA, said: "This is a major issue on both sides of the border and has generated significant opposition from local communities who object to pylons and overhead power cables.

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"Communities on both sides of the border have outlined their strong feeling about this proposal. I and other Sinn Féin representatives have backed them.

"A public inquiry was first convened in 2012 and I have received correspondence from the environment minister that this inquiry is to be reconvened.

"This is an important step towards finding a resolution to this contentious issue."

(CD/JP)