Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 14 February 2013
246. Deputy Nicky McFadden asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government if he will ensure that adequate guidelines are put in place before wind turbines are erected in the midlands in order that issues of concern including distance, location, height and noise levels can be given due consideration and attention; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7956/13]
View answer256. Deputy Nicky McFadden asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government if the deadline for public submissions in relation to wind farm development in the midlands will be extended to allow adequate time for interested parties to make contributions; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7962/13]
View answerI propose to take Questions Nos. 246 and 256 together.
The Wind Energy Development Guidelines, which were published by my Department on 29 June 2006, provide advice to planning authorities on catering for wind energy through the development plan process. The guidelines are also intended to ensure a consistency of approach throughout the country in the identification of suitable locations for wind energy development and the treatment of planning applications for such developments. This mapping of suitable locations is carried out through the development plan process which makes extensive statutory provision for public consultation. Planning legislation and Regulations provide for extensive public notification of proposed development by way of site notice and notice in a newspaper approved for this purpose.
The planning authority is required, under section 34(3) of the Planning and Development Act 2000, to have regard to any observations or submissions received concerning the proposed development in accordance with the relevant regulations. Furthermore, any person who makes a submission to the planning authority may appeal the decision of the planning authority to An Bord Pleanála. The Board in some instances, at its own discretion, holds oral hearings in relation to cases being considered by it, further adding to the opportunities to participate in the decision-making process. In regard to the review of the wind energy development guidelines, I refer to the reply to Question No. 478 of 12 February 2013 which outlines the intended public consultation stages for the review process.
