asked the Minister for Energy if he will consider erecting an electric windmill at Bloodyforeland, County Donegal.

My Department are supporting a windpower demonstration programme at seven different locations throughout the country. The ESB are also involved in windpower experimentation.

I am satisfied that the existing machines cover a sufficiently wide range of locations and applications to give a balanced view of windpower potential. These machines are being tested over the next few years, and the results should indicate whether windpower can be developed economically. Until this assessment is completed I do not see any need for further wind-machines at other locations.