Sinn Féin MLA Barry McElduff has called on the Department of the Environment to explore all forms of renewable energy.

Speaking after an event at Stormont, which was attended by environmental groups and representatives of the wind energy industry, the West Tyrone MLA said: "This event was hosted by the environment committee's inquiry into wind energy and brought together environmental groups, residents, planning officials and local councils.

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"It allowed all those with views on various aspects of wind energy to ask questions and get answers.

"Events like this are important because it allows all stakeholders to have their say on this issue and that is why Sinn Féin pushed for the committee inquiry on wind energy.

"Sinn Féin has concerns that in order to meet European targets on renewable energy the Department of the Environment is focusing solely on wind energy.

"It is our view that it would be better to explore all forms of renewable energy.

"In areas like West Tyrone in particular communities feel that there seems to be a singular focus on wind energy. It is our duty to raise those concerns.

"The committee will also be visiting Aghyaran in West Tyrone where there a high concentration of wind energy infrastructure."

(CD/MH)