A decision by An Bord Pleanála to refuse permission for a wind energy development on part of the Slieve Aughty Mountains was made on the basis of the increasing pressures faced by wildlife at this location, according to Birdwatch Ireland.

In commending the decision, Siobhán Egan, Birdwatch Ireland's Policy Officer said: "It wouldn't have made sense to cause further damage to this important site for Hen Harrier when there are alternative areas that can provide the wind energy resource that's needed, the decision highlights the need for a strategic approach to wind energy development on land just as is being developed for our marine environment."

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The proposed location for the 16 turbine development was the western flank of this mountain area on the largest remaining piece of open ground at Keelderry. Despite

efforts by An Bord Gáis to investigate possible mitigation measures, the site has already

been feeling the squeeze from other existing wind farm developments and commercial

forestry and there was no certainty that the proposal wouldn’t cause further harm.

Ms Egan added: "Much of our wildlife is facing increasing pressures, it is really

important that bodies like An Bord Gáis lead the way in ensuring we meet our future

energy needs without compromising our invaluable natural environment."

Protecting the Natura 2000 network of designated sites (Special Protection Areas and

Special Areas of Conservation) is a basic legal requirement. BirdWatch Ireland is

lobbying for a more strategic approach to where renewable energy developments are

placed so that important areas for wildlife are protected while enabling renewable

energy developers to get on with the important job of providing low‐carbon energy.

(CD)