Minogue’s action on wind turbines

There was heated debate across the chamber as a proposal to include a variation in the Louth County Council Development Plan in relation to wind turbines emerged.

Cllr. Dolores Minogue called for the inclusion of an objective in the development plan ‘ to ensure that wind energy developments do not adversely impact upon the existing residential amenities of residential properties, and other centres including schools, hospitals, churches, residential buildings or buildings used for public assembly.’

She also called for ‘ the establishment of a setback distance of 10 times the tip height of proposed turbines from residential properties and other centres of human habitation.’

Cllr. Maria Doyle supported the motion saying it was ‘a sensible proposal, as it isn’t feasible to expect people to live near turbines.’

But Cllr. Mark Dearey added that the motion added that the motion would impact county wide asking ‘do we want to put an end to wind energy in Louth?’ He stated that sustainable energy was a goal of the development plan, adding that the council should bring renewable energy plans forward, adding ‘ The threat of climate change is far greater than that of wind turbines.’

Cllr Marianne Butler agreed, adding that she represents the area where the DkIT wind turbine operates, and there had never been a complaint in relation to it.

After a vote the motion was carried. CEO Joan Martin said she would write to the department on the issue.