Vol. 520 No. 2
79 Mr. Haughey asked the Minister for Public Enterprise if her attention has been drawn to ongoing complaints from residents in Beaumont and Santry, Dublin 9, in relation to intolerable noise from overhead aircraft, particularly at night; when works on a rapid exit taxiway at Dublin airport will be complete; if the situation will improve following these works; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [15549/00]
I am aware of complaints in relation to aircraft noise from residents in Beaumont and Santry. The works on the rapid exit taxiway, as referred to by the Deputy, required closure of the main runway at night and the consequential exclusive use of the secondary runway. These works were completed in mid April.
However, engineering works to facilitate the relocation of a shelter to house equipment relating to the landing system resulted in the continued use of the secondary runway to a greater extent than would normally be the case. It is expected that these works will be finalised shortly and the main runway will then be back in full service at night time with a consequent reduction in noise. The secondary runway will, of course, continue to be used for operational reasons as required.
