Written answers

Tuesday, 10 June 2025

Department of Transport, Tourism and Sport

Airport Policy

Photo of Ruth CoppingerRuth Coppinger (Dublin West, Solidarity)
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373. To ask the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport the actions he is taking to mitigate the effect of airport noise for people living near the airport given a recent report (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [30492/25]

Photo of Darragh O'BrienDarragh O'Brien (Dublin Fingal East, Fianna Fail)
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It is important to Government in ensuring the sustainable development of Dublin Airport, to balance the legitimate rights of local residents who are concerned about noise levels at the airport, with the objectives of the National Aviation Policy, and the needs of business and tourism interests.

As the Deputy will be aware, noise mitigation at Dublin Airport is subject to substantial regulation and oversight as well as best practice mitigation measures. The Aircraft Noise Competent Authority (ANCA) is the independent regulator for the management of noise at Dublin Airport. In their role as noise regulator, ANCA previously defined a Noise Abatement Objective (NAO), a policy for managing the effects of aircraft noise emissions on the surrounding communities and environment, for Dublin Airport. This is effectively a plan to ensure that any growth at the airport occurs in the most sustainable manner possible. On an annual basis, ANCA has a remit to review the effectiveness of noise mitigation measures in achieving the NAO for Dublin Airport.

Additionally, I understand that a review of noise levels and their effects on local communities has been initiated by ANCA. Through this process, ANCA will evaluate whether the noise impact at Dublin Airport since the opening of the new runway is of a scale that requires new noise mitigation measures or possible operating restrictions.

The Programme for Government includes a commitment to work with stakeholders to ensure relevant agencies engage effectively with all communities impacted by noise, flight movements and airport operations. I can assure the Deputy that it is a priority for the Government that such robust engagement takes place.

In this regard, I can advise the Deputy that I recently met with representatives of the St Margaret's The Ward Group to discuss a range of issues related to Dublin Airport, including the PMCA Economic Consulting Report and I committed to having a follow up meeting with the group later this summer.

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