Gabrielle McFadden (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I wish to raise an issue that was brought to my attention by members of the Defence Forces based in Athlone, namely, a marked increase in the number of drones being flown over the midlands. The air ambulance is based in Custume Barracks, Athlone - which is something of which I am very proud and for which I fought hard - and it serves the midlands and areas further afield very well as it responds to medical emergencies. It operates at all times. According to the Defence Forces, drones should not be flown within three miles of Custume Barracks or, indeed, any barracks because they interfere with helicopters taking off and landing. Any such interference, puts lives at risk.I ask the Acting Leader to ask the relevant Minister - I am not sure whether we are talking about the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport or the Minister for Justice and Equality - to come to the House for a debate on the use of drones near Custume Barracks in Athlone. The Department of Transport, Tourism and Sport is responsible for drones, but the Department of Justice and Equality is responsible for who enforces the existing laws in this area, which need to be enforced.