Gas Networks Ireland has called on Cork farmers and landowners to check under ground for pipelines before carrying out excavation works on land.

The Dial Before You Dig initiative is set to put gas pipeline safety high on the agenda as Cork has the highest rate of encroachments in the country.

Gas Networks Ireland’s figures suggest that 10 instances of potentially unsafe activity near gas transmission pipelines were recorded in Cork in 2025, with four recorded so far in 2026.

When the number of incidents is considered against the length of the county’s gas transmission pipeline network, Cork has the highest rate of encroachments in the country.

Cork has almost 2,000 kilometres of gas pipeline running through the city and county, with around 90,000 homes and businesses connected to the gas network. Gas transmission pipelines run through the land of 735 landowners and farmers in the county.

The figures also suggest that there were 86 accidental third-party hits to gas distribution pipelines in Cork in 2025.

There has, however, been an encouraging increase in people using Gas Networks Ireland’s Dial Before You Dig service.

In 2025 over 37,000 requests were made nationwide – an increase of almost 40% on 2024.

Gas Networks Ireland will be at the National Ploughing Championships to speak directly with farmers, landowners and contractors about the importance of checking for the location of underground gas pipelines before breaking ground. 

Gas Networks Ireland’s Head of Health, Safety and Quality, Paul O’Brien said:

“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. 

“The good news is that more people are taking the time to check before they dig. We received 37,000 Dial Before You Dig requests last year.

“We want to see that number continue to grow. 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,” Mr O’Brien said.

If you’re planning or undertaking any excavation work, it is essential to check for the location of gas pipes by calling 1800 42 77 47, emailing [email protected] or registering for a Dial Before You Dig Online account on Gas Networks Ireland’s website.