Finian McGrath (Dublin North Central, Independent)
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1476. To ask the Minister for Environment, Community and Local Government if the designation of lands as natural heritage area precludes or influences the development of wind farms on this land; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31886/15]

Alan Kelly (Tipperary North, Labour)
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Section 10 of the Planning and Development Act 2000, as amended, provides that when preparing the development plan for their areas, planning authorities must include objectives for a range of specified matters, including the conservation and protection of the environment which incorporates the protection of prescribed sites such as those designated as natural heritage areas. In deciding whether or not to grant permission for a proposed development, including wind farms, the relevant planning authority or An Bord Pleanála must consider the proper planning and sustainable development of the area having regard to the provisions of the development plan, any submissions or observations received on the proposed development, and relevant Ministerial or Government policies including any guidelines issued by my Department.