December 20, 2010
Letters, Ontario

Proposed wind farm projects require attention

www.owensoundsuntimes.com 20 December 2010

It seems every day I read the paper now, there is news about a proposed wind farm in the “area” . . . and you might say, what area is that? I could name some specific ones, but for this discussion, I would prefer to refer to all industrial wind farms. I think we need to look at the broader picture here in Ontario, as it is evident that individual communities are not alone with their concerns.

Almost 70 communities have asked for moratoriums and some are continuing with local bylaws to stall the implementation of such projects.

In 2009, the Green Energy Act was passed by the Ontario government. This legislation removed municipal rights with regard to the planning and implementation of renewable energy projects.

One might assume that there is much knowledge and expertise within the Ontario governmental organization, or is it as some cynics might suggest, that such policies are actually being driven by the wind itself.

Many, many different members of parliament, municipalities, organizations and concerned individuals have raised a variety of issues to the provincial government, yet the proposed wind farms continue to be popping up, rather hu rriedly, throughout Ontario governments scrutinize processes, food, medications, appliances etc. and many consumer goods before allowing them to be sold to the public – why the difference with wind turbines?

There is great debate regarding the effects to human health from industrial wind turbines and no serious evidence seems to be forthcoming to prove they do not harm. Could this be compared to the attitude years ago that there was “no evidence” that cigarette smoking was harmful?

Voters in Ontario are confused and angry. Why is it that the Ontario government seems reluctant to comment on these issues?

These proposed projects require our attention. They may not involve us now, but soon they may involve family, friends, neighbours or someone we know.

There is much information available regarding industrial wind farms, here in Ontario, and around the world.

When we are able to remove ourselves from the situation, research, reflect, learn and then discuss and debate intellectually, rather than emotionally, perhaps collectively we can begin to move forward.

Donna Mitchell
Annan


URL to article:  https://www.wind-watch.org/news/2010/12/20/proposed-wind-farm-projects-require-attention/