Glenties Councillors seek clarity on wind farm policy in the west

The Cathaoirleach of the Glenties Municipal District, Sinn Féin Councillor Marie Therese Gallagher has requsted that a workshop be held in relation to wind energy in the district.
The issue was raised during a Glenties Municipal District meeting.
Cllr Gallagher said as far as she was aware, there is a time limit once the policy hasn't been heard.
"This is a very, very important issue for this area. I am requesting, if all of the members here could get an e-mail with the information sent out outlining matters, such as, if the policy isn't discussed, agreed or put back or discussed at council level, what does happen?"

Gritters will out in force this evening but treacherous road conditions expected

Main routes will be gritted but caution is advised

Independent Councillor Micheál Choilm Mac Giolla Easbuig said there are enough windmills in the county. He said windmills built decades ago could be changed and less windmills erected. He said that one windmill could generate the same as five of the older windmills.
He said: "Enough is enough, we have enough windmills."
Cllr Marie Therese Gallagher said she was happy to support him adding that there is no wind energy policy in the county development plan.
"There are laws and there are rules and we have to get that policy right and that policy has to suit the best interests of the west of the county. It is important that the policy is taken through the council because if we don't have it we have no say. It matters not what we say here at council - we will have absolutely no say it will just go straight to An Bord Pleanála. It is a very, very important document, we still have the opportunity to make changes to it - I have seven or eight amendments already made to the wind energy policy which I think will protect the west of the county."
She said described what has occurred in rural communities across west Donegal over the years as a 'disgrace.'
"However, we have a job of work to do as members, we can make a motion and I agree with your motion but the reality is it the policy that we adopt that will be recognised by the department and by An Bord Pleanála," she said.
Fainna Fáil Councillor Anthony Molloy said it was a serious subject that ought not to take lightly.
"We have to make sure communities are protected .. There is a lot to be discussed here," he said.
He said it was important to discuss the variation plan.
Fianna Fáil Councillor Noreen McGarvey asked for clariation on the variation plan.
"I will take all your requests and organise a workshop," Cllr Marie Therese Gallagher said.
Councillor Mac Giolla Easbuig asked that they meet with local people relating to the issue.
Cllr Gallagher said once clarity is gained on the variation plan that a subsequent meeting with local groups could certainly be sought.

Annual cost of filling your car has risen by €600 in two years - AA Ireland