Paul Daly (Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I wish to be associated with the condemnation of the atrocious events in both Orlando and France and to extend my sympathy and that of my colleagues to all concerned.

Will the Leader ask the appropriate Minister to visit the House to outline the whereabouts of the proposed national wind energy guidelines? Recently, Westmeath County Council introduced a variation to the country development plan, which was supported unanimously by all parties and non-party members, to include the equine industry in the noise sensitive receptors. As somebody who is very involved in that industry, I welcome this. Unfortunately, however, the Minister, Deputy Coveney, made a submission stating that the council was contravening the existing wind energy guidelines. The current guidelines are outdated and archaic with regard to the modern wind turbines that are proposed.

I am not opposed to wind energy, but the equine industry is a major industry in this country. While we all probably have an eye on the soccer this week, Royal Ascot is also taking place and every newspaper one opens carries plaudits from people all over the world for our horse breeding industry and the performance of the Irish thoroughbred. Thoroughbreds are extremely sensitive to wind turbines. Due to the large equine industry in Westmeath and also with an eye to the national industry, Westmeath County Council introduced the variation I mentioned, but it has been ruled out of order. When one tries to inquire about the proposed new wind energy guidelines, not only does nobody know what shelf they are on but also nobody appears to know which Minister is responsible for them. Today, it could be an energy matter but on another day it could be a planning issue. Will the Leader invite the appropriate Minister or Ministers to the House to inform us on the whereabouts of the new guidelines and when they will be announced? Perhaps we can then have a debate on the matter.