Shane Ross (Dublin Rathdown, Independent) | Oireachtas source

I thank Deputy Ellis. I am in danger of repetition given what I have already said to Deputy Ryan. I take to heart what both the Deputies have said. I understand the real difficulties in which the residents find themselves when a large project of this sort threatens to disturb their lives with the noise it creates.

As the Deputy knows, new EU rules and directives are coming into force on this issue. I hope this will be used as an opportunity for a humane and understanding solution to the problems of these residents. Obviously, the need for a second runway is imperative at this stage; it is an enormous necessity for tourism and for other aspects of the development of the country. However, I do not think any large body like the DAA, with a State monopoly, should be able to kick around small groups of people who have made their lives in a certain area and who should be treated with compassion, generosity and understanding. I believe meetings have already taken place, although I do not know how they went or how the residents feel about them - Deputy Ellis might come back to me on that point. As I said to Deputy Ryan, I will be meeting the DAA very shortly and this will be a priority in those conversations.

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