Leo Varadkar windfarm move ‘reeks of clientelism’

Taoiseach Leo Varadkar’s intervention in the planning process for a windfarm, at the behest of Donald Trump, has triggered claims that the move reeks of “clientelism”.

The controversy is expected to be raised in the Dáil this week and windfarm developer Michael Clohessy — whose project was rejected by Clare County Council — says he may consider legal action.

Mr Varadkar is under fire after his admission in the US last week that he called the council, when he was minister for tourism, after Mr Trump complained about the windfarm plans close to his Doonbeg golf resort.