Scottish Renewables chief responds to Newsnight comment criticism
The chief executive of Scottish Renewables has sought to clarify his position following demands for an apology over remarks he made on television.
- By Sandra Gray
- Published in the Courier : 02.03.11
- Published online : 02.03.11 @ 04.09pm
Niall Stuart had been criticised by Mid-Scotland and Fife MSP Murdo Fraser for saying that "there are few, if any, wind farms on areas of national scenic importance" during an appearance on Newsnight Scotland.
The Conservative politician branded the comments an "insult to Perthshire" as residents near sites at Griffin, Calliacher and Drumderg have long campaigned, ultimately unsuccessfully, in a bid to protect their picturesque landscapes.
However, Mr Stuart contacted The Courier to address the issues raised and put his statement into context.
He said, "My remarks on Newsnight Scotland did not of course refer directly to Perthshire or any other part of Scotland — rather they referred to the Scottish Natural Heritage report Renewable Electricity Trends in Scotland Statistics and Analysis October 2010, which states that relatively little wind farm development 'is affecting (directly) the national scenic areas and the central parts of the national parks'."
The issue of wind farms once again came to the fore following a recent announcement by the Forestry Commission that it is making tracts of land available for developers as Scotland strives to meet renewable energy targets.
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