Peter Burke (Longford-Westmeath, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I thank the Deputy for his question. My Department is focused on a review of the 2006 wind energy development guidelines. The review is addressing a number of key aspects, including sound or noise, visual amenity setback distances, shadow flicker, community obligation, community dividend and grid connections.

Almost 500 submissions were received in response to a public consultation undertaken as part of a strategic environmental assessment, SEA, of the draft guidelines, many of which were very detailed and technical in nature. My Department and the Department of the Environment, Climate and Communications have analysed the submissions received in conjunction with the contracted SEA and noise consultants, and are in the process of preparing finalised guidelines, having undertaken a detailed consideration and analysis of all the submissions received.

Prior to the conclusion of the SEA process, a number of changes are being made to the noise sections of the guidelines. This work is being led by the Department of the Environment, Climate and Communications and is being completed in conjunction with its external noise consultant and my Department. Work is ongoing in respect of the outstanding issues and is being advanced by our Department. In conjunction with the Department of the Environment, Climate and Communications, we are endeavouring to finalise and publish the revised guidelines as quickly as possible.

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