Clare Daly (Dublin Fingal, Independent) | Oireachtas source

This is a serious part of the debate. The logic of what the Minister is saying is that, in effect, we should ignore scientific evidence that is known to cling to a bureaucratic measure. Part of the reason this legislation has been delayed in its implementation in Ireland is the delays within the Department of Transport, Tourism and Sport. The amendment would not undo anything. It would simply add a reference to the recognised reality in respect of current levels and the health impacts of aircraft noise, especially at night.

It is actually essential. The Minister's answer will be frightening for people who are listening. Effectively, he is saying that this is a bureaucratic measure and that we are only doing this because we signed up with the EU. He is suggesting we can ignore all that good stuff about science and the actual reasons we are bringing in aircraft noise regulation and the health impacts. He is saying we will not bring it up to date. This is not a contradiction; it is an add-on. It does not undermine anything. It strengthens the Bill.