The Minister for Communications, Climate Change and Environment has been slammed for issuing a Ministerial directive removing a condition in relation to wind turbines.

Sinn Féin TD for Wicklow/East Carlow John Brady said his actions will have grave repercussions for the people of Wicklow.

Teachta Brady said: "One of these conditions set out by the Council is that wind turbines are not to be developed within 1km of residential areas. This condition was put in place as a response to the well-known concerns of locals throughout the county and therefore, as a means of protection for people's homes.

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"This protection was extremely valid and I welcomed this condition as being absolutely necessary. The fact that Minister Naughten has stepped in and gone over the heads of the Council Councillors while at the same time dismisses the legitimate concerns of the people is appalling.

"I will be contacting the Minister directly to voice my concerns on the removal of this condition and I will also be making a formal submission to the Planning Authority in this regard."

(CD/JP)