Michael Finucane (Fine Gael)

A European directive on the protection of 34 special areas of conservation and the policy of alternative energy, particularly wind energy, could have profound implications for Ireland because the areas listed are mainly situated on mountains or in bogs, which are very suitable for wind energy. I warn the House that this issue will be a flash point in rural areas in the near future because many farmers are looking to wind energy as an alternative source of income. In addition, many communities also obtain a dividend from the people who invest in wind energy projects. I would like the Government to carefully examine the impact this directive will have in rural areas and I forewarn the House that it will become a hot topic.