Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 27 June 2023
163. Deputy Alan Dillon asked the Minister for Transport the latest progress regarding the acquisition of counter-drone technology for the Dublin Airport Authority as a temporary measure to mitigate the threat of unauthorised drone operations; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [30927/23]
View answer164. Deputy Alan Dillon asked the Minister for Transport to outline his involvement with the Irish Aviation Authority and the Commission for Communications Regulation in the context of deploying counter-drone technology; the current status of this technology deployment, completion of necessary testing on the procured equipment and the anticipated timeline for full implementation; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [30928/23]
View answerI propose to take Questions Nos. 163 and 164 together.
daa is progressing the deployment of additional counter drone technology to complement the already functioning drone detection system at the airport. The deployment of counter drone technology at Dublin airport is a complex operation and the technology needs to be deployed and operated safely.
There has been a number of engagements between my Department and the Department of the Environment, Climate and Communications, the Irish Aviation Authority, the Commission for Communications Regulation, the daa and the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment on this matter.
The approval process is now well advanced. Testing of the equipment has recently been completed, and the agencies concerned are working to conclude their assessments as soon as possible. This due diligence is necessary from a safety perspective and has been done in every other State where counter drone technology has been deployed.
