Shane Ross (Dublin Rathdown, Independent) | Oireachtas source

I cannot accept the amendment for good reasons. EU Regulation No. 598/2014 makes it clear that the noise regulator must ensure regard is had to the 2002 environmental noise directive in monitoring noise levels at the airport. We cannot alter EU Regulation No. 598 which ensures a consistent EU-wide approach to noise levels assessment. I do not propose to move away from it and it would be impossible to do so. As I said, the noise regulator will have the required expertise to decide on the most appropriate limits at the airport. I do not propose to dictate to what the regulator should have regard. It would be particularly difficult if the amendment were passed because it would contravene EU Regulation No. 598. I, therefore, call on the proposer to withdraw it in the light of the 2002 environmental noise regulations.