Minister Eamon Ryan was accused of having 'undue power' over the project which has been widely opposed.

Clifford Kelly told the meeting that "Eirgrid is going into people's land without permission".

EirGrid's chief infrastructure officer previously said the company would seek to assign contractors following the outcome of the judicial review.

Councillor Noel Keelan added that he has no confidence in the company due to its warning that there could be blackouts this winter.

A former environment minister says the government needs to take action.

Eirgrid CEO Mark Foley said landowner and community support for the powerline is a key focus for the company.