Concerns have been raised after Element Power submitted plans to Westmeath County Council to develop 175 meter high wind turbines in North Westmeath.

If permitted, the thirteen industrial size wind turbines will be the highest turbines erected anywhere in Europe.

Sinn Féin TD for Meath West, Peadar Tóibín said the size of the turbines means that the landscape will be totally dominated by their presence, and the surrounding properties will be devalued.

He said: "This means that the townlands of Coole, Monkstown, Carnagh (Fore by) Doon, Clonsura, Mullagh, Boherquill and Joanstown will be directly affected by work on the windfarm.

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"Other causes for worry are the constant noise that these huge turbines emit as well as the shadow flicker which emanates from their rotating blades. If permission is granted this will pave the way for yet further wind turbines throughout the greater area.

"My colleague, Brian Stanley TD has introduced a Bill to the Dáil to regulate the wind industry. This will ensure that large scale industrial wind farms are kept a safe distance from people's homes. It also includes public consultation requirements on the effects on the local community and environment as well as optional co-ownership for local residents.

"Our landscape and heritage is unparalleled and we should not jeopardise our natural assets or the health and well-being of our residents most of all. We will be fighting for greater regulation of the wind turbine industry in the Dáil. I am also urging residents who are concerned to attend a demonstration in Castlepollard on July 1st at 3pm to show their opposition to the latest wind farm proposal."

(CD/MH)