Education Minister asked to step into Limerick wind farm row

PARENTS of children who attend a school just metres from the site of a proposed new windfarm have asked Education Minister Norma Foley to step in.

It comes as their community continues its campaign against the proposed development at Coolcappa.

Concerned parents of youngsters attending Coolcappa National School have expressed their “deep concern” around the plan from Ballynisky Green Energy to construct six turbines with an overall height of 158 metres near the village.

In a letter to the Kerry TD, they indicate that if constructed, the turbines will be located between 750m and 1,400 metres from the school.

READ MORE: MACE Thomas Street nominated for national awards

An application to formally build has yet to be presented to council, but locals in Coolcappa say they are expecting this in the months to come.

Among the parents’ concerns are shadow flicker, which occurs when the sun is low enough in the sky - in evenings and mornings - that wind turbines pass across it causing a brief shadow over landscapes and buildings every few seconds.
“Shadow flicker is clearly not conducive with a healthy learning environment given the obvious distraction. The school is within range of shadow flicker from all six turbines and will likely receive shadow flicker from two turbines at the same time,” the letter reads.

Other concerns raised include noise pollution and other visual impacts which “may affect the well-being and concentration of students and teachers during school hours”.

They have asked the Education Minister if Coolcappa National School will be afforded the elimination of shadow flicker - a move which would probably mean the set back of the wind turbines.

“We implore you to recognise the gravity of our concerns and take decisive action to safeguard the health, well-being, and educational environment of our children. Our school is not just a place of learning. It is a sanctuary where our children thrive and grow. As stewards of their future, it is your responsibility to ensure that their safety and well being are prioritised above all else,” the letter concludes.

As of Tuesday, Ms Foley had not personally responded to the communication.

For its part, the developer, Ballynisky Green Energy has said the turbines are designed with technology which prevents shadow flicker.

The firm has also previously said it remains open to talks with the community action group set up as a result of its plans.

“The project will fully comply with national regulations on noise and once operational, a comprehensive noise monitoring regime will be undertaken to ensure the proposed development complies with regulations,” they added.

Ballynisky has also said it will create a €150,000-per-year community benefit fund.

The Coolcappa Community Action Group are part of the Community and Environmental Protection Alliance.

Made up of 60 wind farm action groups across 15 counties, it was set up in response to the growing number of wind farm applications nationally.