Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 3 May 2017
297. Deputy Pearse Doherty asked the Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment if he has received correspondence from a person (details supplied) concerning revisions to the wind energy guidelines; if a response was issued; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21058/17]
View answerThe statutory responsibility on planning policy and legislation, including leading the review of the Wind Energy Development Guidelines, rests with the Minister for Housing, Planning, Community and Local Government. Responsibility regarding the authorisation of wind farm developments is a matter for the relevant planning authority or An Bord Pleanála.
The Department of Housing, Planning, Community and Local Government, in consultation with my Department is conducting a targeted review of the Wind Energy Development Guidelines (WEDGs) in relation to noise, shadow flicker and proximity. In accordance with the Programme for Government commitment the finalised Guidelines will have to offer a better balance between the concerns of local communities and the need to invest in indigenous energy projects. The new planning guidelines will also be informed by best international practice.
Furthermore, the issues of community benefit and participation are being considered and developed as part of this process. The proposed new Guidelines will be subject to Strategic Environmental Assessment and associated public consultation before they are finalised by Government. Intensive engagement between the two Departments is ongoing in order to bring to completion the revision of the Wind Energy Development Guidelines as soon as possible.
I have only recently received the correspondence from the person referred to in the Question which concerns the Wind Energy Development Guidelines and legal proceedings relating to a specific wind energy development. Since some of the issues raised in the correspondence relate to planning policy and legislation, they are outside of my remit. A comprehensive response will be issued to the individual concerned in the next ten days.
