Shane Ross (Dublin Rathdown, Independent) | Oireachtas source

Nowhere does it indicate that. It is a general rule. It provides clarity that existing noise mitigation measures, whether in effect or not, will be considered noise mitigation measures for the purpose of this Bill. It is pretty clear that any of the past ones are considered, for the purpose of this Bill, to be present ones. This includes noise mitigation measures attached as conditions to existing planning consents. It is important this provision is retained, mainly as it will ensure continuity with the planning and development aspects of this Bill and provide clarity to the noise regulator and the planning authority. It will also allow the noise regulator to review any such measures in light of the balanced approach in line with Part 3 of this Bill to ensure consistency in our approach to mitigating noise problems.

This is one of the core purposes of the Bill. I am on the Dáil record on this point. It is wholly appropriate that regulators be empowered to take a full view of all existing and potential future noise mitigation measures at the airport. It is to be consistent and to ensure there is consistency throughout; it is not directed at any specific measure.