Sinn Fein has introduced a new Bill to regulate the development of wind turbines through providing limits on the exportation of product generated from them.

Launched by spokesperson for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources Brian Stanley TD, the Wind Turbine Regulation Bill 2016 aims to protect nearby dwellings from noise and shadow flicker by providing minimum set back distances and ensuring a public consultative process for any developments.

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Mr Stanley said: "Sinn Féin supports the development of renewable energy. However, until now there has been little benefit for local communities from these developments. This Bill will seek to address this issue in a number of ways.

"Imposing proper regulation on all aspects of wind turbine developments, including proper zoning of areas for wind turbine developments, set-back distances and assigning responsibility for decommissioning wind turbines will address the concerns many people have around wind turbines in their locality.

"It will also ensure that any renewable energy produced in Ireland should be directed towards the reduction of the fuel bills many households find burdensome. To address this issue, the Bill seeks to ensure Ireland's energy demands are met prior to renewable energy being exported."

(CD/LM)