The Ulster Unionist Party has raised its concerns over the prospect of the sale of Northern Ireland’s electric Grid to the Republic of Ireland.

Describing the sale as ’bad business for Northern Ireland’ UUP MLA Tom Elliott said; "I am extremely concerned about this transaction and the Ulster Unionist Party do not believe it is in the best interests of Northern Ireland as the ESB is owned by the government of the Republic of Ireland. Handing control of Northern Ireland’s electricity grid to the Republic of Ireland could be irreversible."

"My Party Leader Sir Reg Empey wrote to the Taoiseach at the start of May questioning this transaction but has not yet had any reply. For that reason we are considering seeking a meeting with Brian Cowan to discuss the matter further and to highlight our concerns."

"One of these concerns is how ESB would target investment for example - would they invest in the Republic while only supplying Northern Ireland? All of these questions need detailed answers."

"From our point of view, we are fearful that there could be a serious impact on North/South co-operation."