REN to seek further public comment

We have recently learned from REN that they are planning a new public consultation period, to be concluded in July. This will be our final chance to challenge REN on their decision to site these high tension cables and pylons in one of the most beautiful scenic areas of the Algarve.

In their correspondence with us, REN has claimed that their aim is to minimize the visual intrusion and impact on the quality of life of the residential population close to the corridor where the pylons will be placed. Yet their decision is directly contrary to these considerations.

We have also received a written commitment from the Ministry of the Environment that they will notify us when the next public meeting will be taking place. However, please look out for this information in your local Junta de Freguesia, the Tavira Camara, the press and the Diario da Republica.

In the meantime, our local and national politicians remain disinterested.

Press Campaign

Still no replies to the tens of letters sent to REN, Cavalum, Tavira council and the Department of the Economy, so I guess we need to follow-up and make more noise.

However some progress with the press campaign. There was another high profile article in The Algarve Resident last week http://www.algarveresident.com/story.asp?XID=31260 and a follow-up letter and additional wind-farm briefing has been sent to the journalist involved. The same issue also contained an excellent letter from the couple who spearheaded the campaign to stop the erection of a communications tower next to houses in Carvoiero. Like us, they can't understand the behaviour of local politicians.

Contact details are being collected for Portuguese media (TV, radio and newspapers) and a covering letter and briefing material has been translated in preparation.

Briefing material has also been provided to UK-based journalists working for national publications.