Windfarms ‘pose threat to horse industry’

Locating windfarms close to stud farms could threaten the Irish thoroughbred industry, which employs about 14,000 people, according to a submission made to the Department of the Environment.

The Irish Thoroughbred Breeders’ Association, the Irish Jockeys’ Association, the Irish Racehorse Trainers’ Association, and the Association of Irish Racehorse Owners have warned that wind turbines, if not “placed at a suitable and appropriate distance” will pose a “very real risk” that could threaten international investment in the Irish horse industry.

The submission states that “the proposed developments will be a significant deterrent to future funding and support from overseas investors, who are integral to the industry”.