The ESB has confirmed that two of Ireland's newest power stations have been closed down indefinitely due to health and safety concerns.
The move follows an examination of infrastructure at the new Lough Ree peat burning station in Lanesborough, Co Longford.
Arising from this issue, a second peat burning station in Shannonbridge in Co Offaly was closed as a precautionary measure.
Speaking on RTÉ Radio's News At One, ESB Public Affairs Manager Eoghan Ó Neachtain said that the closures pose no threat to the national power supply.
It is the second time in two years the two new stations have been shut down because of safety concerns.
Last year, corrosion of piping was discovered in both stations, leading to short closures and up to €10m in losses for Bord na Móna. Bord na Móna supplies peat to both stations.
The piping was replaced, but during an overhaul on the Lough Ree plant, more corrosion was discovered in the reactor in the gas treatment room.
The power stations were built within the last five years at a cost of almost €500m, but both have been severely affected by safety issues in their short history.
There has been no impact on jobs in either area as yet, but long term closure of the stations will have a knock on effect on workers in Bord na Móna.
