Michael Clifford: Waterford residents push back against the breeze as windfarms loom ahead

Paddy and Annabelle Massey with their children Aine, Abraham and Saoirse are strongly opposed to the proposed windfarm in west Waterford. Picture: Patrick Browne

The State has made a commitment to increase its electricity generated from renewable energy to 70% by 2030, but the conflict between development and conservation, landowners and residents, is one that is being replicated across rural Ireland, writes Michael Clifford.

One fine day last August Paddy Massey, his wife Annabelle and their three children made it to the summit of the Galtymore. Blue skies afforded them a panoramic view of south Munster, stretching across four counties, including the competing peak of Carrauntoohil, Co Kerry. And down towards the Lee Valley in West Cork, Paddy could even make out the white lines of rows of wind turbines.