Kevin Humphreys (Dublin South East, Labour) | Oireachtas source

I am supportive of the notion that provisions in this area should be included in legislation. However, I have yet to come across any environmental proposal, whether relating to wind turbines, wave energy development or otherwise, where there has not been some type of complaint. For instance, the construction of turbines off Arklow prompted objections on the basis that spawning grounds would be impacted, which might lead to the death of migrating birds. There is concern right now in locations in the midlands regarding wind turbine flicker. The difficulty is in striking a balance between the overall benefit of installing wind turbines or developing tidal energy, for example, as against the potential impact of such initiatives. There seems to be a negative impact from everything we propose. There is clearly a level of urgency to be met in dealing with climate change, but this question of striking a balance must be considered before including any provision in legislation. As I said, I do not recall any proposal that has not prompted objections from one source or another.