Copper Thieves Endangering Lives - ESB Network

Thieves stealing live copper overhead power lines are not only putting their own lives at risk, but are also endangering the lives of others by leaving "potentially unsafe live electrical network after them and interrupting supply to critical services", An Garda Síochána and ESB Networks have said.

In a joint statement released on the Gardaí website, ESB Networks said that they were dealing with several incidents where live copper overhead lines have been stolen, alongside copper earthing conductor from High Voltage substations all over the country.

The statement reads: "There is extreme danger of severe injury or fatality when attempting to steal live electricity lines or metal from ESB Networks High Voltage substations.

"This theft which has occurred across the country can result in loss of electricity supply to customers in the areas targeted by thieves.

"It also causes significant the inconvenience caused to local residents while the repair works are carried out by ESB Network crews. This has an impact on domestic and commercial customers. ESB Networks is particularly concerned that the theft of live electrical equipment can have a severe impact on vulnerable customers.

"We apologise to customers that may experience sudden and unexpected loss of electricity supply due to this theft.

This illegal activity results in significant costs to ESB Networks in repairing the damaged network. These costs are ultimately borne by all electricity customers. The events of recent days highlight the importance of public awareness of this illegal activity.

"ESB Networks is actively working with An Garda Siochana to tackle this activity, and are pursuing every feasible means of protecting the electricity network. The public have an important part to play in helping put a stop to this type of theft. We would appreciate the assistance of the public who should call our 24-hour emergency hotline on 1850 372 999 and the Gardaí at 999/112 if they notice suspicious activity near our network.

"We appeal particularly to members of the rural and farming communities whose land is being trespassed upon, and damaged by these thieves to be vigilant and to contact us immediately if they believe that there is any suspicious activity taking place close to electricity networks on their land."

People are advised to not approach the thieves or the electrical network as there may be live electrical network left in an unsafe condition by the thieves.

ESB Networks is also engaging with other utilities and government departments and agencies to bring about a co-ordinated and organised response across all sectors to this illegal activity.

(MH/JP)