The High Court's decision to quash an extension of a peat extraction license for a power plant in Offaly could lead to a greater dependence on controversial windfarm developments, according to Fianna Fáil.

Kildare South TD Seán Ó Fearghaíl pointed out that the decision puts jobs in the peat harvesting industry at significant risk.

He said: "The decision means that the lifespan of the power plant in Edenderry may now be significantly reduced and there are over 180 jobs at risk as a result of this. However the ruling does not solely impact on Edenderry as there are also serious concerns surround the future of other peat powered power plants and the extensive employment they provide through peat harvesting operations.

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"Bord na Móna is a significant employer in Kildare but this High Court ruling puts a question mark over the company’' future operations. Workers at the company and the wider community need certainty regarding their future in light of this ruling. Communities are also worried that this ruling could lead to a greater reliance on controversial wind farm developments, many of which have already caused consternation across Ireland and which are strenuously opposed in county Kildare."

(CD/LM)