The Taoiseach has promised that new planning guidelines for wind farms will be introduced by the end of the year.
Simon Harris said he passionately believes in increasing wind energy, but it must be done in a way that brings communities along.
“We are listening and we’re going to revise the 2006 guidelines once and for all,” he said.
The Taoiseach was speaking after a protest at the gates of Leinster House called for new robust wind energy regulations.
The demonstration, which included people from 20 different counties, was organised by the Communities and Environmental Protection Alliance.
Independent TD Richard O’Donohoe told the Dáil that newborn children and their parents cannot get any sleep in areas close to wind farms.
He said the regulations of this sector are out of date and there has to be greater distance between wind turbines and homes.
The Limerick TD stated that the permitted noise levels from turbines in Ireland are double what is allowed in Australia.
Galway-East TD Sean Canney urged Government to ensurethat any changes to regulations put people at the top of the agenda.
He said “people matter” and they want a safe place for their children to live.
