Jan O'Sullivan (Limerick City, Labour) | Oireachtas source

I thank the Deputy for his comments on sceptic tanks. The regulations apply to any body authorised to provide telecommunications infrastructure, so it is not just the ESB. The Deputy made some suggestions about micro wind turbines and smaller hydroelectric schemes. These are constantly under review so if other exemptions are required, we would be open to any newer ones that come along. However, obviously we need to get the balance right; we do not want to exempt things where neighbours would justifiably have a right to comment.

We do not want to move too far in one direction or another. Any sensible proposals will be considered. The Deputy suggests there are other ways of providing renewable energy. While this issue may not come within my remit, the Government would certainly be open to examining it. Technology is constantly evolving and we would be pleased to examine any new proposals which would be suitable for exempted development.