A protest is planned in Meath today over EirGrid's decision to build high voltage overhead power lines linking the Single Electricity Market (SEM).

Residents claim the lines which will run for 58 kilometres through County Meath to Tyrone pose a major health risk.

Francis Lally, Meath Pylon Pressure spokesman, said: "Our community is very angry over the health implications of the high-voltage power lines. There are thousands of people who will be affected. Our key concern here is the health risk but the pylons will also blight the landscape and devalue homes and property.

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"Our solution is straightforward, by all means install new power lines, just put them underground."

Mr Lally highlighted studies showing that living beside power lines increased the risk of contracting cancers, childhood leukaemia or suffering miscarriages.

In a statement EirGrid said placing part or all of the transmission network underground could cause problems, particularly in the identification and repair of faults. It also noted that the power lines will bring economic benefits to the region; the development would require an investment of €200 million and would provide more competitive and reliable power.

(GK/JM)