Gas Networks Ireland says 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.

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."

The Dial Before You Dig service provides information, guidance and maps of the gas pipeline network. Anyone planning or undertaking excavation should call 1800 42 77 47, email [email protected] or register at www.gasnetworks.ie/dial to check for gas pipes.

With a significant share of Ireland's gas transmission system running beneath farmland, Gas Networks Ireland will use the National Ploughing Championships 2026 (15–17 September, Screggan, Co Offaly) to highlight pipeline safety. A "Dial Before You Dig" Tattoo Parlour will offer striking temporary designs to reinforce the core safety message.

The company will be at Stand 153, Row 8, Block 4 throughout the three‑day event, inviting farmers, contractors and families to learn about gas pipeline safety, renewable energy and the future of Ireland's gas network. More information: www.gasnetworks.ie/ploughing

Transmission pipelines — the "motorways" of the network — transport large gas volumes over long distances. Ireland has nearly 2,500 km of transmission pipelines crossing the lands of over 5,000 landowners. These pipes can be up to a metre in diameter, operate at pressures up to 85 bar, and typically run cross‑country.

Distribution pipelines act like local roads, taking gas from the transmission network to more than 720,000 homes and businesses. The distribution system extends over 12,000 km, uses smaller‑diameter pipes, operates at 4 bar and below, and runs through towns, cities and residential areas.