Seán Ó Fearghaíl (Kildare South, Fianna Fail)
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540. To ask the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine if he has had discussions, or if his officials have had discussions with the Department of the Environment, Community and Local Government, and, or, his officials, and the Department of Communications, Energy and Natural Resources and, or, his officials, in relation to the possible impact of the proposed wind farms across the midlands on the Irish thoroughbred industry; if he, or his officials, have raised any concerns regarding any possible impact on this vital industry; if he will indicate that response; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [40963/13]

Simon Coveney (Cork South Central, Fine Gael)
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Ireland is the 4^th largest breeder of thoroughbred horses in the world, and the industry makes a significant contribution to rural employment and the economy generally. I have regular contact with the sector and I can assure the Deputy that I am committed to its growth and development as a flagship industry for Ireland, including through the development of overseas markets for the sector in places like China and the Gulf States.

In relation to proposed wind farms in the midlands, my Department has not received any representations regarding the possible impact on the Irish thoroughbred industry. Neither my Department nor I have had any discussions with the parties referred to by the Deputy in his question in relation to this matter.