asked the Minister for Tourism and Transport if his attention has been drawn to the fact that the beacon lights, otherwise known as the red obstruction lights, on the roof of the 7 tower blocks in Ballymun, Dublin 11 have no back-up power system to keep them lighting in the event of an ESB power failure; if, in view of the implications for air traffic in and out of Dublin Airport, he intends to take any measures to have this problem rectified; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Written Answers. - Ballymun Tower Block Obstruction Lights.
28.
There are international standards, developed by the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO), which specify the circumstances in which structures are required to be marked by obstruction lights with standby power supply. These standards are applied in relation to obstructions on and in the vicinity of Irish airports. The Dublin Corporation tower block flat complex at Ballymun does not fall within the category that requires to be so lit. The existing lights on the roofs of the flats were installed on a voluntary precautionary basis by Dublin Corporation.
I am satisfied that the standard of reliability of the existing power supply system is adequate and that the possibility of a failure would not interfere with the safe conduct of aeronautical operations at Dublin Airport. Should a prolonged failure of the system occur, my Department has arrangements in place for the notification of the situation to aircraft pilots and operators.
I would like to assure the Deputy that the occupants at Ballymun are not at risk in the event of failure of the obstruction lights.