James Bannon (Longford-Westmeath, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

Wind energy is a topical, controversial and emotive issue across the north midlands, particularly in County Westmeath. Like our friends before us, I am in favour of the development of alternative and renewable energy resources, which is to be welcomed. There is an abundance of available renewable energy that has yet to be properly harnessed.

My question concerns the existing guidelines. Where can the existing guidelines, dating from 2006, be improved? I attended public meetings at which serious allegations were made about serious health problems, including migraine, nausea and sleep disruption. Mr. Duncan was at one of the meetings at which I requested information and evidence of serious health problems. That meeting was held in my parish four months ago, but the information has not come to hand. Has there been a study conducted of serious health problems and implications? Do we have concrete medical evidence of wind farms affecting people's health and sleep and the problems associated with shadow flicker? That is very important.

It has been stated farmers were conned by some of the companies in telling them they would sign temporary leases. The blueprint shows a different result and many are now concerned. Perhaps Ms Fagan might elaborate on the topic because there is genuine concern and fear.

With regard to cabling, will it be placed underground or on overhead pylons, linking various industrial wind turbines? We would like more information on this.

The development of any renewable resource should be undertaken in partnership with local communities. Has there been an attempt to have a balanced debate at these meetings?

Have the companies been invited to attend meetings and debate the issues in an open and transparent manner with communities? It is important that we hear both sides of the argument. I have been at some of the parish hall meetings and the attendance has been up to 350 people, but no one from the other side has been present to put forward an argument.