Oireachtas Joint and Select Committees

Wednesday, 8 February 2023

Select Committee on Transport, Tourism and Sport

Estimates for Public Services 2023
Vote 29 - Environment, Climate and Communications (Revised)
Vote 31 - Transport (Revised)

Photo of Eamon RyanEamon Ryan (Dublin Bay South, Green Party) | Oireachtas source

Yes, that is where we can and should look at tightening up to make sure we get full information. These technologies are readily available. They are very small and very easy to conceal. They are very easy to import and easy to deploy. We do need to use all the mechanisms we can to regulate them. We were advanced in introducing legislation, which is ongoing. We are particularly looking at adopting EU legislation. Often, legislation in this sort of technological area works best on a European-wide basis because it applies to all manufacturers and distributors. One gets a much more effective control.

The Deputy referred to it not being good manners. I believe it goes beyond that. There is a threat to people's lives when a drone is put up around an airport. This is why the prosecution and the efforts of An Garda Síochána are so important. This is a criminal matter and it must be dealt with with real severity. The potential consequences of flying a drone is not about manners, it is a real threat.

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