Joanna Tuffy (Labour)

I initially tabled this Adjournment matter to the Minister of Defence, but I was informed that it was a more appropriate matter for the Minister for Transport. I would like representatives of the Departments of Defence and Transport, south Dublin and Kildare county councils and the Irish Aviation Authority to meet to discuss issues relating to the current and future use of Weston Aerodrome, which is a matter of concern for many interested bodies. I understand that problems are being caused by the failure to give responsibility for the aerodrome to any single authority. An official from the Department of Defence recently wrote to the aerodrome, on behalf of the Minister, to ask whether a proposed development at the aerodrome constitutes a runway and to express concerns about its potential impact. The Department is concerned that if it agrees to allow the aerodrome to be used in the proposed manner, it will be deemed to have sanctioned unauthorised planning. It would be concerned about the development even if it were authorised.

This is an issue of concern for local residents. Baldonnel Aerodrome is quite close to Weston Aerodrome. Many of the matters of concern relate to safety. I do not wish to prejudge the outcome of the meeting between the various interested parties. We need to ensure that future development is considered by such groups. They should come together to form a co-ordinated opinion as a single entity. I hope the meeting I have suggested will help to initiate such a process. I have raised this matter for that reason. I do not know what the Minister of State's response will be, but I hope it is positive. I do not want the current and future development of Weston Aerodrome to be hindered by a lack of co-operation between the various bodies which are interested in its future use and development.