22 November 2016
By Tom Collins
tom@TheCork.ie
Cork East TD, Kevin O’Keeffe has said that the soon to be completed Castlepook Wind Farm, near Doneraile, in North Cork will be a game changer in supporting Ireland meeting its commitments to diversify its electricity supplies, and reduce its dependence on fossil fuels.
The Fianna Fáil TD said: “Over 17,000 homes will be powered by this project when up and running. That’s 17,000 homes not dependent on the burning of oil, gas or peat, and this is to be welcomed.
“Obviously, the development of wind farms can cause unease in communities, and it is very important that those who seek to develop them work in close co-operation with the communities they impact.”
“In this instance, I would urge local community groups to ensure that they apply for the Community Benefit Scheme that has been established for Castlepook.”
“Already, we have seen funding provided to construct additional bike trails in the Ballyhoura Mountains, and more will come as a result of this development.”
“Clean energy, like the energy that will be produced at Castlepook, is a part of the country’s future. It will end up being cheaper, and more sustainable.”
“I look forward to the opening of Castlepook in 2018, and seeing our local community add to Ireland’s commitment to reducing fossil fuel consumption,” concluded O’Keeffe.
