Photos: Gas Networks Ireland
Farmers and landowners across Louth are being urged to check for underground gas pipelines before carrying out excavation work, after a number of potentially unsafe incidents were recorded in the county.
Gas Networks Ireland said there were three instances of potentially unsafe activity near gas transmission pipelines in Louth during 2025, with a further incident recorded so far in 2026.
There were also 16 accidental third-party hits to gas distribution pipelines in the county during 2025, according to the organisation.
More than 450 kilometres of gas pipeline run through Louth, while over 300 landowners and farmers have gas transmission pipelines crossing their land.
Almost 27,000 homes and businesses in the county are connected to the gas network.
Warning ahead of National Ploughing Championships
Gas Networks Ireland is highlighting the issue ahead of the National Ploughing Championships, which take place from 15th to 17th September in Screggan, Tullamore, Co Offaly.
The organisation is encouraging farmers, landowners and contractors to use its Dial Before You Dig service before carrying out work such as ditch clearing, drainage, excavation or fencing.
Gas Networks Ireland says the majority of transmission pipelines cross farmland, making advance checks particularly important in rural areas.
Its Head of Health, Safety and Quality, Paul O’Brien, said potentially unsafe activity near transmission pipelines continues to happen regularly.
“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,” he said.
“The good news is that more people are taking the time to check before they dig.”
More people using safety service
More than 37,000 Dial Before You Dig requests were made nationwide in 2025.
Gas Networks Ireland said that represented an increase of almost 40% on the previous year.
O’Brien said the service is designed to help people avoid damaging underground infrastructure and reduce risk.
“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,” he said.
“It is a simple step that can help prevent damage to underground infrastructure and, most importantly, help keep people safe.”
The service provides maps, information and advice on the location of underground gas infrastructure.
Anyone planning excavation work can contact Gas Networks Ireland on 1800 42 77 47, email dig@gasnetworks.ie or use the Dial Before You Dig service online.
Gas Networks Ireland will also be at the National Ploughing Championships this month to speak with farmers, landowners and contractors about pipeline safety and renewable gas.
