Written answers
Thursday, 20 February 2014
Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine
Wind Energy Generation
Seán Ó Fearghaíl (Kildare South, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source
216. To ask the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine if he will seek the commissioning of an independent study by an international expert or body, to understand the effect of wind turbine developments on thoroughbreds; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8652/14]
Simon Coveney (Cork South Central, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source
Ireland is the 4th 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. The development of national policy in relation to the wind energy is a matter for the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources and my Department has no function in the matter.
anne flynn
Posted on 23 Feb 2014 10:45 am (Report this comment)
Simon Coveney was present when the Pyry report was discussion initially in the Dail 23 JUNE 2010. He at that time was concerned with the size of the project. He knows and has known the extent of damage this project was to envisage. Why does he not stand up, when it is clear that thousands of agricultural acres are to be sterilised, tons of concrete poured into the fertile pastures and the livelihoods on many farms are in jeopardy. He knows and is implicit in these events, by keeping silent. It has everything to do with his Department...