Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 8 June 2016
595. Deputy Niall Collins asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources the complaints received by his Department regarding noise, nuisance and shadow flicker issues arising from wind farms, by county; if there is a formal register of such complaints; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [14360/16]
View answerDepending on the size and nature of a project, the authorisation of wind farms is a matter for the relevant planning authority or An Bord Pleanála and I have no function in the matter.
The Programme for Government commits to updating the wind energy planning development guidelines within 3 to 6 months of the formation of Government, to ensure an appropriate balance between the concerns of local communities in relation to matters such as noise and shadow flicker and the need to invest in indigenous renewable energy projects for the purpose of assisting in the achievement of our EU renewable energy targets. The Programme for Government also recognises the importance of community participation in renewable energy.
In accordance with the commitment in the Programme for Government, the Department of Environment, Community and Local Government, in consultation with my Department and within the timeframe specified in the Programme for Government, will bring to Government revised Wind Energy Planning Development Guidelines. The issues of community benefit and participation will be further considered and developed as part of this ongoing process.
My Department does not maintain a formal register of complaints in regard to any aspect of wind farm development or management.
