Offaly ‘becoming a powerhouse’ in wind energy production, says Taoiseach

Taoiseach Micheál Martin has said that County Offaly is becoming a “powerhouse” when it comes to its production of wind energy.

The Taoiseach made the remarks in a response to a contribution made by Offaly TD Tony McCormack.

Deputy McCormack outlined Offaly’s contribution to Ireland’s energy production and cited the number of windfarms located in the county.

He stated: “Despite accounting for just 2 per cent of the national landmass, County Offaly is on course to provide approximately 30 per cent of the energy needed to power the country, including 1 GW each from wind and solar.

“At the moment, we supply 11 per cent of the country's power. Last month, Offaly was the largest wind energy provider in the country. That is a very significant national contribution.”

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However, he went on to say that the county is not rewarded economically for its energy contribution.

“Yet, Offaly remains 10% below the national average for disposable income and it is important that the communities driving this transition are supported to share in the prosperity it can bring.

“At a time when international investors and multinational employers are seeking locations that can provide carbon neutral and cost-effective energy, Offaly is uniquely positioned to attract major enterprise and long-term employment.

“Will the Taoiseach confirm the Government will match Offaly's national contribution with full support for local infrastructure and investment needed to ensure the county secures the economic benefits of helping to power Ireland's future?”

In response to Deputy McCormack, Deputy Martin agreed with his party colleague’s assessment of Offaly’s energy contribution.

The Taoiseach stated: “Deputy McCormack said Offaly is leading the way. It is a powerful set of statistics.

“Everybody in the house is probably not aware of the degree to which Offaly is becoming a powerhouse.

“Bord na Móna is a big factor here. We will have further developments on that front, and investments.”

He added that the county should be considered by private enterprises both locally and further afield.

“It is time that foreign direct investment and IDA Ireland looked at what Offaly has to offer.

“Contrary to what Deputy Paul Murphy is saying, there is real potential for energy parks and an alternative new economy with Bord na Móna as a catalyst and, as a significant State agency, to leverage its land assets and what it has to try to generate a new economy and new jobs for Offaly more generally.”

The Taoiseach concluded by saying that this was a positive development and that the Government will continue to pursue such projects.