Shane Ross (Dublin Rathdown, Independent) | Oireachtas source

​On 22 September last, I announced details of the manner in which EU Regulation 598/2014, on the establishment of rules and procedures with regard to the introduction of noise-related operating restrictions is to be implemented in Ireland. As I explained previously, this will require the introduction of a statutory instrument, which will see the Irish Aviation Authority, IAA, as the designated competent authority to oversee the shift towards a more prescriptive approach to noise management at Dublin Airport, in line with European and international civil aviation standards.

Before the IAA as competent authority makes any decision about noise-related operating restrictions at the airport, there will be an obligation for full public consultation and all stakeholders will be able to give their views. The IAA will have to organise consultation processes, including with local residents and local businesses, in a timely, substantive, open and transparent manner. All interested parties will be given at least three months to submit comments every time a change in the operation restrictions is proposed.

All obligations concerning environmental impact assessments will be met in relation to the impacts of airport noise. There will also be extensive collaboration with relevant stakeholders including An Bord Pleanála, the Environmental Protection Agency, the relevant planning authority, the airport operator and the air navigation service provider.

Officials in my Department are currently engaged with the Office of the Parliamentary Counsel in order to finalise the details relating to the statutory instrument which will transpose EU Regulation 598/2014. This is a complex area of work and one which requires a great deal of consideration with the aim of achieving an efficient and comprehensive regulatory regime for noise management at airports. The timing and extent of the primary legislation required will be guided by the advice received by Attorney General's Office.

Given that legislation on this topic will be of interest to the House, especially to Deputies living in the vicinity of Dublin Airport, I intend, as previously offered, to present my plans for any primary legislation to the Oireachtas Joint Committee on Transport, Tourism and Sport, at the earliest possible opportunity.

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