Shane Ross (Dublin Rathdown, Independent) | Oireachtas source

We had an extended debate last week on the World Health Organization, WHO, guidelines, which is probably what Deputy Daly is concerned about. In that debate I explained that it was not possible to introduce amendments which have the effect of changing EU regulations, even if I wanted to do so. In coming to this amendment, I understand that there might be some confusion that I am doing precisely that. I am not. The amendment simply updates a cross-reference to another key EU provision related to noise.

I also wish to clarify that under the Interpretation Act 2005, should the EU environmental noise directive change in the future, giving rise to new implementing guidelines, when those changes are given force to an updated statutory instrument, that update will have direct applicability to this legislation.

Amendments Nos. 54, 67 and 73 merely reword and clarify Opposition amendments carried on Committee Stage. The competent authority will notify elected members of Fingal County Council and Members of Dáil Éireann in whose constituency the airport is located. The amendments are tabled purely for drafting reasons and make no substantive change to the Bill.

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