Pat Carey (Dublin North West, Fianna Fail)
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Question 649: To ask the Minister for Transport if he is satisfied that legislation and regulations in relation to the use of civilian helicopter flights are robust enough to take account of the nuisance caused to residential communities by the ever increasing number of such craft; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [14225/07]

Martin Cullen (Waterford, Fianna Fail)
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The Irish Aviation Authority (IAA) is responsible for the provision of air traffic management services in Irish controlled airspace and the safety regulation of the Irish civil aviation industry, including the regulation of helicopter operations. Neither I nor my Department has a direct role in this area. The IAA ensures that Irish civil aviation operates to the highest safety standards set internationally.

The IAA has informed me that it acknowledges the recent increase in helicopter activity within Irish airspace and that it is continuing to review existing legislation and operating procedures with a view to ensuring that safety will not be compromised and where possible reducing the environmental impact associated with helicopter operations. Legislation relating to the regulation of helicopter operations can be viewed on the IAA site www.iaa.ie.

As I indicated to the Deputy in response to a previous Question individuals may contact the Authority directly with any concerns regarding safety matters arising from helicopter operations in their areas.