Mayo Fianna Fáil Senator Lisa Chambers says she is deeply concerned that a high-level offshore wind policy statement, due imminently, will discriminate against the west of Ireland by giving priority to projects in the east and south of the country.

The Leader of the Seanad says if this happens, then viable floating offshore wind projects off the west coast will not be permitted to apply for maritime area consents until a later stage, with projects off the east and south coasts being prioritised.

She insists that it would be a huge mistake by the Environment Minister, if credible floating offshore wind projects, located off the west coast, were to be disenfranchised by a policy decision.

Senator Chambers has been telling Midwest News Editor Teresa O’Malley why she believes that if this decision is taken, on the second phase of this policy document, it will have long-reaching and long-lasting impacts on the west and northwest region …