Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 25 April 2024
125. Deputy Darren O'Rourke asked the Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications how the Government intends to respond to a recent court decision (details supplied); if advice from the Attorney General has been received; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [18509/24]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe judgment referred to by the Deputy is the first module of a case that has been divided into two modules. As no judgment has been delivered in the second module, the matter remains before the Courts and I cannot, therefore, comment on the case.
The assessment of noise from wind energy development is covered by the 2006 Wind Energy Development Guidelines (WEDGs). The Department for Housing, Local Government and Heritage (DHLGH) is currently undertaking a focused review of these guidelines with assistance from officials in my Department. The review is addressing a number of key aspects including noise. My Department has engaged with specialist consultants to review and redraft the noise elements of the WEDGs, where necessary. This element of the review has been progressed and the proposed revisions have been submitted to DHLGH to be considered as part of its review. The adoption of revised Guidelines is a matter for the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage.
My Department has no further plans for wind generation noise policy outside of the WEDGs process.
