Robert Troy
Question:2258. Deputy Robert Troy asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport the actions he has taken to legislate for and regulate drones to date. [34529/18]
View answerTuesday, 24 July 2018
Questions (2258)
Written answers
The Irish Aviation Authority (IAA) has statutory responsibility for aviation safety regulation in Ireland, including the regulation of remotely piloted aircraft systems (drones), as provided for under S.I. No. 563/2015 - Irish Aviation Authority (Small Unmanned Aircraft (Drones) and Rockets) Order, 2015. To date over 10,100 drones and model aircraft have been so registered.
The IAA seeks to ensure that drones are used properly and in safe locations. The IAA's safe use of drones’ guidance includes specific restrictions on their use, and the Authority responds to reports of misuse on a case-by-case basis when it is brought to their attention. In addition, any unauthorised use of an drone may be referred to An Garda Síochána for investigation.
There may be privacy or trespass laws or other legal issues, which need to be taken into consideration by a person operating a drone. These rules are not within the remit of the IAA. Ultimately, drone users must understand that they are legally responsible for the safe conduct of each drone flight, so the onus is on the drone user to inform themselves of the rules and regulations surrounding drone use before they take to the skies
The IAA promotes the safe use of drones and has participated in safety initiatives such as No-Drone-Zone campaigns. The IAA encourages people to take a drone user course, to ensure that drones are operated in a safe manner in compliance with the regulations.
Should the Deputy require further information about the implementation of S.I. No. 563 of 2015 the IAA is available to assist.