Dara Calleary (Mayo, Fianna Fail)
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253. To ask the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources the groups, companies or persons he has met since taking office in relation to wind energy issues, projects or proposals; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42686/14]

Alex White (Dublin South, Labour)
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Since taking up office as Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources, I have met very many interested parties in connection with issues across the energy agenda, including on wind energy, in many different fora. Such interactions are a critical input to policy formation and development. I am keenly aware of the need for on-going communication with all stakeholders if we are to improve understanding of the benefits of realising the potential of our indigenous renewable energy resources. These resources, including wind, can deliver a more secure and sustainable energy supply and contribute to economic growth. This informs the rationale behind a range of public consultation processes on energy issues. Currently, the 1,200 responses received by my Department during the recent consultation on the Green Paper on Energy Policy are currently under consideration. A range of seminars are also being held with interested stakeholders. A consultation on the Strategic Environmental Assessment to be undertaken on the Bioenergy Plan will commence shortly as will the next phase of consultation on the Renewable Electricity Policy Framework. I am keenly aware of the need for balanced input from the full spectrum of interests on energy policy and my officials and I are available, subject to diary constraints, in this regard.