To ask the Minister for the Economy whether NIE Networks have an obligation to review or investigate its power cables and lines to ensure they are not being compromised by trees or branches.

NIE Networks has a number of statutory requirements within the Electricity (Northern Ireland) Order 1992, The Electricity Safety, Quality And Continuity Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2012, as well as requirements withing their Distribution Licence; to ensure the integrity of its network.

Annually NIE Networks maintains safety clearances to circa 10,000km of overhead lines (and other equipment) from nearby vegetation. The cutting cycle has also been adapted to accommodate increased tree growth due to climate change and this is kept under constant review.

Furthermore, around 1,800km of overhead line network is refurbished and replaced with modern specification equipment capable of withstanding minor interruptions, for example, from tree contact.