The Chief Whip Regina Doherty has backed a campaign against a proposed electricity interconnector in Meath, Cavan and Monaghan.

The interconnector would link electricity between the North and South.

Those involved are planning to engage in a campaign of “civil disobedience” against the proposed interconnector.

In a statement made on RTE this morning, Ms Doherty said there will be "A phase of civil disobedience to hamper the decision made by An Bord Pleanála," before saying "I fully support the farmers and landowners in that action."

An Bord Pleanála approved plans for the overground cables yesterday.Those cables will be supported by pylons which will facilitate the interconnector that will run between Co. Meath and Co. Tyrone.

Campaigners are seeking for the line to be put underground instead. Ms. Doherty appears to be putting her position in the Cabinet on the line to try and have the ruling overturned.

She said "In terms of my position in Government, I have one last chance to work to get this decision overturned and I am going to remain in Government to use that chance."

More than likely there will be a judicial review of the planning decision, thus postponing a final resolution of the plan for months and possibly years