Robert Troy (Longford-Westmeath, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

We have to acknowledge that EU Regulation No 598/2014 states "sustainable development of air transport requires the introduction of measures aimed at reducing the noise impact from aircraft at Union airports". It also states: "The importance of health aspects needs to be recognised in relation to noise problems, and it is therefore important that those aspects be taken into consideration in a consistent manner at all airports when a decision is taken on noise abatement objectives". We acknowledge this is a critical part of the EU regulation.

We want to ensure that we do not compromise the Bill, ensure it is robust and not subject to legal challenge. I would appreciate if the Minister would clearly outline why he cannot accept these amendments. The regulation itself states: "Based on work the WHO is currently undertaking regarding the methodology to assess health implications of the noise impact, the Commission intends to revise Annex III to Directive 2002/49/ EC." The only reason in my mind that it is not clearly outlined in these regulations is because the work has not been completed.

We have been more than co-operative in terms of scheduling and working with the Minister on Committee Stage to bring forward amendments which will improve this legislation. While I accept the Minister has taken on board amendments and referred to environmental noise regulations, will he clarify that this is not a delaying measure? Will he accept these amendments will give effect to what Members across the political divide are seeking to achieve?

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