Vol. 406 No. 7
35 Mr. Ryan asked the Minister for Tourism, Transport and Communications if he will make a statement on the difference of opinion that exists between Aer Rianta and St. Margaret's Community Association regarding proposals for insulation against aircraft noise for dwellings in their area; and whether he has any proposals to resolve this dispute.
In 1988, Aer Rianta commissioned a survey to identify the number of houses which would be affected by the coming into operation of the new runway. Ninety eight houses were identified as coming within the internationally accepted noise intrusion limits. The cost of providing the necessary noise abatement protection, including double glazing and roof insulation, was estimated to be approximately £500,000.
Following extensive consultation with householders affected, Aer Rianta agreed to implement a scheme for house insulation which is substantially better than any comparable scheme in the UK. The cost of this scheme will be approximately £750,000 as against the £500,000 originally envisaged.
A majority of the householders affected have accepted the scheme and have had their houses insulated. The feedback from these householders is satisfactory. I am aware that St. Margaret's Community Council are seeking substantially increased levels of insulation for houses in their area, including double and secondary glazing, extensive roof insulation, air conditioning in some cases, inner and outer wall insulation and double glazed porch doors.
In my view the Aer Rianta scheme is fair and reasonable.
