Anti wind farm group from Offaly joined in Dail protest

MEMBERS of the Lemanaghan Bog Heritage and Conservation Group joined forces with environmental and community groups from across Ireland in a friendly yet determined protest outside Dáil Éireann on Tuesday May 21st.

The Lemanaghan Group is opposed to the proposal to develop a wind farm on its local bog which, they say, should be left untouched.

The event was organised by CEPA (the Communities & Environmental Protection Alliance) and called for stringent statutory regulations governing the operation of wind farms in Ireland.

The protest was called "Dáil Gathering for Robust Wind-farm Regulations," and it pointed out that the implementation of statutory regulation and monitoring of wind farms is seen as a crucial step towards ensuring the sustainable and responsible operation of these renewable energy sources.

Statutory regulation, consistent with World Health Organisation (WHO) standards, involves establishing a set of legally binding rules and standards that wind farm operators must follow. These regulations are designed to minimize environmental impacts, safeguard wildlife, and ensure the safety and efficiency of energy production. Key aspects of the regulatory framework include requirements for regular maintenance, noise control, shadow flicker mitigation, and the protection of bird and bat populations.

By enforcing these regulations, governments can promote the generation of clean energy while protecting local communities and preserving natural ecosystems. This ensures that wind farms operate within an environmentally and socially responsible framework.

“The need for statutory regulations for the planning and operation of wind farms in Ireland,” said a statement from the Lemanaghan Bog Heritage and Conservation Group, “has become increasingly evident as the country seeks to expand its renewable energy sources. Best international practices are essential to ensure that wind energy projects are developed responsibly and sustainably, addressing key concerns such as community health, environmental impacts, and the efficient use of land.”

The group pointed out that by establishing clear criteria for site selection, design, and operation, Ireland aims to harness the potential of wind energy while minimizing negative effects on local ecosystems and populations. This approach supports the nation's commitment to sustainable development and the green energy transition.

One of the key demands of the protestors was a halt on all wind energy planning and development activities until new planning regulations and guidelines for wind energy are established. This measure is seen as necessary to safeguard the communities they aim to serve.

In response to the protest, Taoiseach Simon Harris promised that new planning guidelines for wind farms would be introduced by the end of the year. He emphasised his belief in increasing wind energy but insisted that it must be done in a way that involves and benefits local communities.

"We are listening, and we're going to revise the 2006 guidelines once and for all,” the Taoiseach said, addressing the concerns raised during the protest.

Independent TD Richard O'Donoghue highlighted the impact of wind farms on local residents, particularly the inability of newborn children and their parents to sleep due to noise. He criticised the outdated regulations, noting that permitted noise levels from turbines in Ireland are double those allowed in Australia.

Galway-East TD Sean Canney urged the Government to prioritise people in any regulatory changes. "People matter," he said, "and they want a safe place for their children to live."

The Lemanaghan group said the protest at Leinster House underscored the urgent need for updated, robust wind energy regulations that balance the benefits of renewable energy with the rights and wellbeing of local communities. “As Ireland moves forward with its green energy goals,” the group said, “the voices of its citizens must play a crucial role in shaping a sustainable and inclusive future that is fair to the communities who live in these areas.”