Darragh O'Brien (Dublin Fingal East, Fianna Fail)

As the Deputy knows, the programme for Government includes a commitment to finalise and publish a policy framework for unmanned aircraft systems, otherwise known as drones. This will guide high-level strategic planning and development of the drone sector in Ireland through supporting growth, which we want, and innovation, which we also want, while ensuring safe and secure operations and managing environmental and other concerns.

I am aware that this matter has come up in the Deputy's constituency, especially adjacent to the Blanchardstown Centre area. Work on the drafting of the policy framework has recently been finalised. When I say "recently" I mean I received the draft document last Friday. I am going to review that. I want to make sure I am content with it before I publish it. The policy framework sets out the vision, strategy and priorities for the development of the drone sector in Ireland. There are massive opportunities here and great benefits to it. The framework aims to guide high-level strategic planning and development of the sector in Ireland over the next decade by supporting growth and innovation, as I said. The framework also seeks to ensure safe and secure operations. Many of the issues that will be addressed by the policy framework fall directly within the remit of the Department of Transport. Some others cross over into areas of responsibility of other Departments. The policy framework has been developed through good cross-departmental engagement structures and it will be implemented through similar structures. The framework was informed by the work of an interagency steering group, its sub-working groups, a targeted stakeholder consultation held in 2022 and a public consultation in held in 2024.

The Deputy asked if I would like to get this published before the summer recess. Yes, I would. However, I want to review it properly. As I said, I only received it late last week. It will give clarity to the sector but it also highlights a lot of the benefits of the UAS sector to the general public.

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