Aengus Ó Snodaigh (Dublin South Central, Sinn Fein)
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Question 293: To ask the Minister for Transport if he will make a statement detailing the approach of the Garda Síochána to private helicopters in view of the threat they can pose to public safety; and if he is satisfied that the Garda has sufficient powers regarding the pilots and owners of private helicopters. [27009/08]

Noel Dempsey (Meath West, Fianna Fail)
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The Irish Aviation Authority (IAA) is responsible for safety regulation of the civil aviation industry in Ireland, including the regulation of helicopters.

The IAA has informed me that helicopter owners and pilots must operate their helicopters in accordance with S.I. No. 61 of 2006, Irish Aviation Authority (Operations) Order, 2006 and S.I. No. 72 of 2004, Irish Aviation Authority (Rules of the Air) Order, 2004. Safety of the public and criteria for landing sites is prescribed for in the aforementioned Orders.

Regarding the regulations and requirements for helicopter operations operating to/from an open space in the proximity of a densely populated residential area, the IAA has informed me that the following requirements are in place.

Article 5 (d) and (e) of Statutory Instrument S.I. No. 334 of 2000 (Aerodromes and Visual Ground Aids) Order states that an aircraft shall not take-off or land at any place in the State save at — "In the case of a rotorcraft any place where the aircraft may take-off or land without undue hazard to persons or property and in respect of which the owner or occupier shall have given permission".

Rule 2 of Statutory Instrument S.I. No. 72 of 2004 (Rules of the Air) Order, states that "An aircraft shall not be operated in a negligent or reckless manner so as to endanger life or property".

Aeronautical Notice NR O.41 'Operation of Helicopters at unprepared sites' reinforces the regulations set out in both S.I. 72 of 2004 and S.I. 334 of 2000 while at the same time gives additional guidance on procedures to be followed at ad-hoc landing sites.

The pilot of a helicopter is the responsible person with regard to public safety while landing at a site and the landowner's permission must be sought for landing.

The IAA informed me that regulatory requirements are under constant review by the Authority and where necessary are amended to ensure that safety is not compromised.

The IAA has further informed me that all complaints regarding the safe operation of helicopters or indeed fixed wing aircraft are investigated by the IAA where sufficient details of the alleged breach are available. Individuals may contact the Authority directly with any concerns regarding safety matters arising from helicopter operations in their areas.