TD voices concern over Cornafulla Bog windfarm plan

Independent TD for Offaly Carol Nolan has voiced serious concern over the proposed wind farm on Cornafulla Bog in South Roscommon, a joint venture between Bord na Móna and SSE Renewables.

Deputy Nolan’s intervention follows a detailed representation from the Clara Heritage Society.

The submission highlights that the proposed development site lies just over half a mile from Clonmacnoise and would border the Shannon Callows SAC on three sides along a distance of approximately five kilometres.

“This proposal raises profound questions about the compatibility of large-scale wind energy infrastructure with the protection of one of Ireland’s most important cultural, spiritual and natural heritage landscapes,” Deputy Nolan said.

“Clonmacnoise is a National Monument of international significance, intrinsically linked to the River Shannon and the surrounding Callows. Any development that compromises the integrity of this sacred landscape would have irreversible consequences not only for Offaly but for the nation as a whole.”

Deputy Nolan also noted the strong local opposition expressed at a public meeting organised by the Friends of Cornafulla, Clonmacnoise & the Shannon Callows group in Johnstown, Athlone, on January 22, which was attended by over 200 concerned residents.

Speakers at the meeting highlighted the ecological importance of the Shannon Callows SAC, the largest natural wetland in Western Europe and a vital habitat for rare and protected species, as well as the unacceptable proximity of the proposed turbines to the ancient monastic site.

Deputy Nolan has consistently advocated for communities affected by wind turbine and wind farm developments across Offaly and rural Ireland and has strongly defended the county’s archaeological and built heritage.

“The Government’s committed to the so-called green energy transition cannot be achieved by sacrificing sites of unparalleled historical and cultural value.”

“I am calling for the highest level of scrutiny and transparency in the assessment of this proposal, including full public participation at every stage. If the project is designated as Strategic Infrastructure Development, then the bypassing of local authority planning would only further limit and radically undermine community input, a situation that would be wholly unacceptable.”

“I am urging Bord na Móna, SSE Renewables and all relevant Government departments to apply the precautionary principle and to prioritise the long-term preservation of this unique heritage landscape over any short-term energy gains,” concluded Deputy Nolan.