Gas Networks Ireland has declared 63 incidents of potentially unsafe activity occurred near gas transmission pipelines in 2025, averaging more than one encroachment a week, with a further 24 cases recorded between January and the end of August 2026.

Landowners were responsible for 13 of the 24 instances reported so far this year. Transmission pipelines carry very large volumes of gas at extremely high pressure, and any strike could have catastrophic consequences. In addition, there were 572 accidental third‑party damages to the lower‑pressure gas distribution network in 2025.

Ahead of the National Ploughing Championships next week, the company is renewing its call for farmers and landowners to 'Dial Before You Dig' before any excavation or groundworks take place.

Gas Networks Ireland will attend the event to engage directly with farmers, landowners and contractors about locating underground gas infrastructure before breaking ground.

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Ditch clearing has been the most common activity linked to encroachments this year, accounting for five of the 24 incidents, while building contractors were involved in seven incidents.

Incidents in 2026 to date have been spread nationwide: Dublin (8), Cork (4), Limerick (4), Kildare (2), and one each in Antrim, Kilkenny, Louth, Roscommon, Westmeath and Wicklow.

Common on‑farm activities such as ditch clearing, drainage, excavation, fencing and other groundworks often bring machinery close to buried services. Checking what lies beneath before work starts is vital to protect people and the network.

Usage of the Dial Before You Dig service is rising. In 2025, more than 37,000 requests were made — almost 40% up on 2024.

Gas Networks Ireland's Head of Health, Safety and Quality, Paul O'Brien said: "There are thousands of kilometres of gas pipelines running underground across Ireland, with the majority of transmission pipelines crossing farmland.

"Our figures show that potentially unsafe activity near gas transmission pipelines continues to occur more than once a week, with ditch clearing the most common activity.

"The good news is that more people are taking the time to check before they dig. We received 37,000 Dial Before You Dig requests last year. We want to see that number continue to grow. Whether you are cleaning a ditch, carrying out drainage work, putting up fencing or using machinery to excavate, Dial Before You Dig before you start work.

"It is a simple step that can help prevent damage to underground infrastructure and, most importantly, help keep people safe."