Shane Ross (Dublin Rathdown, Independent) | Oireachtas source

I answered a question on this in the Dáil. I cannot answer the Deputy's question on how genuine it is. I have asked it to meet the residents on a regular basis, which it agreed to do, and they have had meetings. I will try to ensure that a State monopoly of this sort does not abuse its position. I take the matter quite seriously. Although the runway cannot, and should not, be stopped and stalling the project cannot for one moment be considered, it is very unfair that people should be victimised in their homes by this sort of development without being considered in a very meaningful way. By that, I mean that measures will be taken to contain the noise, improve the environment and rehouse people. I understand all of that will be on the cards.

I can assure the Deputy that I will be keeping a very close eye on the project. I and my colleagues feel very strongly that local communities should not have their wishes, sensitivities and houses overridden in an inhumane way when this sort of activity has to happen. The second runway is essential for the progress of tourism and transport in this country. Local communities also have to be considered, which involves rehousing, insulation and other measures of that sort.

I do not know the answer to the Deputy's question, namely, how genuine the daa is in its consideration of the issue or whether it is going through the motions but I hope to ensure that it is genuine.