Anthony Lawlor (Kildare North, Fine Gael)
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426. To ask the Minister for Health the research his Department has undertaken to identify if there are any negative effects on human health in communities where industrial-sized wind turbines have been installed in close proximity to persons' homes; if not, the research his Department is relying upon; his plans to undertake independent research in this area, in view of the extent of wind energy development currently under way; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [17890/15]

Leo Varadkar (Dublin West, Fine Gael)
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Policy responsibility with regard to planning and the legislative framework in relation to the siting of wind turbines rests with the Department of the Environment, Community and Local Government. My Department provides advice from time to time when requested by the above mentioned Department.

At this time, my Department is not aware of any reliable or consistent evidence that wind turbines directly cause adverse health effects in humans. My Department will continue to monitor developments and evidence and provide advice accordingly.