63 cases of potentially unsafe activity near gas transmission pipes last year

Gas Networks Ireland recorded 63 cases of potentially unsafe activity near gas transmission pipelines last year. This equates to more than one encroachment per week across the network.

A further 24 instances of potentially unsafe activity near transmission pipelines were recorded up the end of August, with landowners accounting for more than half of these encroachments.

During 2025, there were also 572 accidental third-party hits to gas distribution pipelines, which carry gas at lower pressure levels.

Encroachments

Ditch clearing was the most common activity that caused an encroachment, accounting for five of the 24 incidents so far this year, while building contractors were involved in seven.

The encroachments recorded so far this year have occurred across the country, with Dublin recording eight, Cork and Limerick four each, Kildare two and one each in Antrim, Kilkenny, Louth, Roscommon, Westmeath and Wicklow.

Transmission pipelines carry very large volumes of gas at extremely high pressure and hitting one could have catastrophic consequences.

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."

Dial before you dig

“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.

“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.”

National Ploughing Championships

Gas Networks Ireland is using the National Ploughing Championships 2026 as a key opportunity to highlight pipeline safety.

To bring the safety message to life, Gas Networks Ireland will have a 'dial before you dig' tattoo parlour, where visitors can choose from a range of striking temporary tattoos designs.

Each tattoo carries the core safety message and is designed to be a reminder to always check the location of underground gas pipes before breaking ground.

Gas Networks Ireland will be located at Stand 153, Row 8, Block 4.