Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 27 November 2018
522. Deputy Clare Daly asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport his views on whether a pre-legislative scrutiny arrangement of one hour and five minutes is adequate preparation for the aircraft noise (Dublin Airport) regulation Bill. [49465/18]
Amharc ar fhreagraIn October this year, my officials appeared before the Oireachtas Joint Committee for Transport, Tourism and Sport and gave a full explanation of the requirements of EU Regulation 598/2014. They set how this EU Regulation would be provided for by primary legislation, and the reasons for that. They further elaborated on how the legislation would be closely interlinked with existing planning and development legislation. Any queries that Committee members had which were not addressed on the day, were provided for in follow up briefing.
Previous to that, I myself appeared before the Committee in July this year to answer questions with regard to this legislation. This involved a full and frank discussion with Committee members. Furthermore my officials have attended open briefing sessions with public representatives throughout the development of this legislation to keep Deputies updated and to hear any concerns they may have.
My Department has just finalised the Aircraft Noise (Dublin Airport) Regulation Bill 2018 which will be published this week. I hope to commence Second Stage of the enactment process in the Dáil in the next couple of weeks and Committee Stage as soon as possible thereafter. I am sure there will be robust debate in relation to the contents of the Bill and this will help to further ensure that the final Act will be fair and transparent and will allow for the sustainable development of the airport while also addressing the concerns of local residents and businesses.
