Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 15 December 2015
50. Deputy Helen McEntee asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources the status of his engagement with the Department of the Environment, Community and Local Government concerning justifiable and important environmental concerns expressed by the people of County Meath relating to Ireland's wind energy guidelines and the proposed North-South interconnector project; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [44828/15]
Amharc ar fhreagraIn December 2013, the Department of Environment, Community and Local Government began a review of the existing Wind Energy Development Guidelines. The review focused on the specific issues of noise, proximity, and shadow flicker. Submissions were received from around 7,500 organisations and members of the public during the public consultation period.
This is a very technical area and the engagement between the two departments is on-going. Studies have been obtained on various aspects of the issues, particularly noise - including separation distance - and detailed assessments of various options have been undertaken by the two Departments.
Any revisions to the guidelines following the conclusion of deliberations will be introduced by issuing the revised guidelines to planning authorities under Section 28 of the Planning and Development Act 2000, as amended.
In terms of the proposed North-South Transmission Line project, EirGrid, in discharging its duties as operator and developer of the national transmission grid, engages with communities and citizens on an on-going basis.
There has been extensive public consultation on the North-South Transmission Link project including statutory consultation as required under Regulation (EU) No. 347/2013 on guidelines for trans-European energy infrastructure and Section 182A of the Planning and Development Act, 2000, as amended.
EirGrid has also opened offices in Navan, Cootehill, and Carrickmacross and has appointed Community Liaison Officers and Agricultural Liaison Officers who are all involved in outreach to the local communities along the intended route of the North-South Transmission Line project.
