Shane Ross (Dublin Rathdown, Independent) | Oireachtas source

I do not feel more muzzled. I regret if the reply is not satisfactory. Nobody has done more in terms of meeting the residents who live close to the airport and passing on their views about the noise regime in which they find themselves currently.

The Deputy should be aware that this is just in the 5 a.m. to 6 a.m. period, which arguably is night time. It is a massive and further inconvenience for the residents who have had an intolerable time in terms of noise. That is why, as the Deputy is aware, I have appointed the IAA to take over noise regulation in a totally independent way. It is a group which not only has an understanding of the residents but will be obliged to consult with them, as the daa has done. It also understands the requirements of the airport. I look forward to a new noise regime in the airport. I think I have made it perfectly clear in the past that sometimes I find it very difficult to accept the attitudes of some of the State monopolies to people who are vulnerable.

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