Locals resist efforts to 'turn North Mayo into a heavily industrialised wind farm'

The Lacken-Ballycastle Protection Group has criticised Mayo Co Council and others for what they claim are efforts to "turn North Mayo into a heavily industrialised wind farm”.

A committee was formed last summer and up to 70 people attended three meetings where concerns over the proposed project were raised.

Limerick-based company Constant Energy is preparing to submit a strategic infrastructure development project to An Bord Pleanála for the construction of Tirawley Wind Farm, which will consist of 24 wind turbines with a combined output of 93 megawatts (MW).

However, the Lacken-Ballycastle Protection Group, led by chair Teresa Fagan, wants to "protect communities and the natural beauty" in their area.

"It is apparent that the local authority and certain local politicians are determined to turn Mayo, and in particular north Mayo, into a heavily industrialised wind farm without proper consideration of the deleterious impact of this policy on our pristine and outstanding scenic coastal areas or on our natural, cultural and archaeological heritage and on our tourist industry," the group said.

It also accused Fine Gael TD Alan Dillon of "seriously advocating" for the rollout of wind energy in Mayo.

“He has stated that windfarms can become tourist attractions and that Mayo County Council should be rolling out the red carpet for investors,” the group said. "We now learn that Céide Fields is no longer on the UNESCO World Heritage Sites tentative list with Mayo County Council having not applied for reinstatement on this list.” 

Deputy Dillon has said he firmly believes renewable energy is a critical component in our efforts to combat climate change and transition to a sustainable future.

“However, it is equally crucial that such projects are implemented in a responsible and community-focused manner, taking into account the concerns of local residents and their potential impact on the environment and cultural heritage,” he added.

Deputy Dillon has called for the development of a Renewable Energy Strategy for Mayo aimed at harnessing renewable energy potential, including wind and solar resources.

“My intention was to explore opportunities for sustainable energy generation while ensuring that the interests and well-being of local communities are safeguarded,” he added.