asked the Minister for Local Government if he will increase the grant for insulation against aircraft noise for the people living in the St. Margaret's area, County Dublin, all of whom will be severely affected by the proposed extension of the runways at Dublin Airport.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Aircraft Noise Insulation.
45.
I have no immediate proposals to increase the existing levels of reconstruction grants.
The problems of the people in this particular village are unique in view of the proposed extension of the runway at Dublin Airport. They are very concerned about this. Would the Minister not reconsider his decision and give some hope for the future to the people in that area?
It is expected these runways will not be required until the end of the seventies so there is quite some time yet before the runways will come into operation. As of now I have no plans before me. I may say the matter is under very active consideration for reasons with which the Deputy is probably more familiar than I am. If the necessity arises, I shall be glad to reconsider the matter.
Even though the runways are not expected to be opertional before the end of the decade the people are making various alterations to their houses now and surely now is the time for them to plan to have their homes in proper order. I would ask the Minister to consider this matter as a priority because the people are very concerned as of now since, when the runways are extended, planes will practically land at their backdoors.
This is a matter Dublin County Council should take up with the airport authorities. To suggest that because the airport authorities decide to put in new runways to become operational at the end of the 1970s or early 1980 there should be a special grant made for houses in the vicinity is suggesting a little bit much. There are other authorities which have a great deal more responsibility in this than the Department of Local Government has. Dublin County Council might consider what way they could help if help is needed. Increasing the amount is not the answer, certainly not at the present time anyway.
The Minister said at the end of 1970 or into the 1980s. Do I take it from that the project has been postponed?
No. The information is the runway will not be operative until the end of the 1970s.
That is only a couple of years ahead.
It was Fianna Fáil put the airport there in the first instance.
And we are very proud to have it there. Seán Lemass put it there.