A member of the new cabinet has admitted she has been “naïve and stupid” regarding distances which turbines should be located from homes.

Speaking at a heated meeting organised by the Meath Wind Information Group (MWIG) on Monday evening, Regina Doherty TD suggested that setback distances for wind turbines from houses should be between 500m and 700m.

This was met with widespread anger from the 250 people in attendance. Doherty was accused of producing a “round political figure” that had no scientific basis.

Those in attendance called for setback distances of 1,000m and more, referencing Germany’s recent introduction of mandatory minimum distance of 1,500m between a dwelling and a turbine.

Responding to the anger from the floor, Doherty admitted she “was naïve and stupid to suggest setback distances of 500m to 750m. I have a meeting with minister Naughten tomorrow [Tuesday] and perhaps the tone of the conversation will have to change.”

After more than an hour of responding to questions, she finished up by saying: “I got it wrong and I admit that. I can’t promise anything, but I promise I will try.”

Outrage

The outrage is directed at a proposed 25-turbine windfarm in Castletownmoor, near Kells, Co Meath. The developer, Element Power, had a similar proposal to develop 46 wind turbines across north Meath refused planning by An Bord Pleanála in February and has now come back with this reduced proposal.

It is expected that Element Power will submit its planning permission before the end of May.