Hildegarde Naughton (Galway West, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I agree with the point raised by the Senators about the importance of stakeholder consultations and have proposed an identical Government amendment, which replaces "may consult with any persons" on the preparation of the statement of strategy with "shall consult with any persons". It is important to acknowledge that the IAA already recognises the importance and value of stakeholder engagement. The aviation regulator chief executive designate invited observations on the preparation of a draft statement of strategy for the new IAA regulator for the 2022-24 period by 19 October of last year. The stakeholder consultation was published on the IAA's website and through its social media channels, meaning that it was open to all interested parties to make submissions. The IAA was pleased to receive detailed comments from a broad cross-section of Irish civil aviation, including air operations, air navigation services, airports and general aviation as well as comments from the IATA and IALPA. Following a review of the comments received, a revised IAA statement of strategy is being drafted in preparation for the establishment of the new IAA.