742. Deputy Cathal Crowe asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage if a company (details supplied), the Irish Aviation Authority and State-owned airports have been asked to contribute to the drafting of new planning guidelines relating to wind energy. [65559/26]

743. Deputy Cathal Crowe asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage if officials from his Department, who are overseeing the drafting of new windfarm guidelines, have begun factoring for aviation safeguarding (details supplied) [65558/26]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 742 and 743 together.

Aeronautical safety is an important consideration in any decision made by a planning authority relating to wind energy development. The current 2006 Wind Energy Development Guidelines advise that the siting of wind turbines may have implications for the operation of the Communications, Navigation and Surveillance Systems used by Air Traffic Control for the separation and safety of aircraft. Consequently, wind energy developers should be advised to contact the relevant bodies at the pre-planning stage of consultation to ensure that the proposed development will not cause difficulties with air navigation safety.

In line with commitments in the Programme for Government 2025, my Department is working with the Department of Climate, Energy and the Environment (DCEE), which holds policy responsibility for renewable energy matters, in respect of the introduction of a number of National Planning Statements related to Ireland's Climate Action Plan target to increase the share of electricity generated from renewable sources up to 80% in 2030. This includes the preparation of National Planning Statements in relation to onshore wind energy development, following a review of the existing 2006 Wind Energy Development Guidelines. The timing of the issuing of National Planning Statements will be based on Government priorities.

In line with EU Directive requirements, a strategic environmental assessment will be carried out on any draft National Planning Statement regarding wind energy development, with opportunity for consultation by the public and all stakeholders on the draft National Planning Statement.

In June 2026, my Department met with AirNav to discuss the planning system, the upcoming National Planning Statement and wind energy development in the context of aviation. Any finalised National Planning Statement with be cognisant of the needs of aviation safeguarding.