Ross fails again by not progressing legislation needed for 2nd runway at Dublin Airport – Troy

Fianna Fáil Spokesperson on Transport, Tourism and Sport Robert Troy TD says that Minister Shane Ross has once again failed in his Ministerial responsibilities by not progressing the required legislation to allow the construction of the second runway at Dublin Airport to proceed.

Deputy Troy said, “Legislation is required that confers upon the Irish Aviation Authority competence with regard to noise controls at airports. This will enable the IAA to ensure that the concerns of local residents are addressed and also to allow construction of the much needed second runway to proceed.

“Today, we have seen a senior figure from the industry come out strongly against the Minister’s inaction.

“This is an issue I have raised at nearly every Question Time with the Minister since I was appointed as party spokesperson 13 months ago.

“As the Dáil is now in summer recess, we will now have to wait until September to see the bill, let alone pass it.

“Dublin Airport, and indeed, Ireland, needs a second runway, and this legislation is crucial in allowing this crucial piece of national infrastructure to proceed.

“This is yet another example of Minister Ross failing to perform his basic functions as Minister for Transport.

“A 2014 EU regulation directed noise management at airports should be undertaken by an independent airport instead of airport operators.

“Once implemented via legislation, the IAA would be the ‘only body empowered to make determinations on operating restrictions to apply at the airport’.

“Minister Ross needs to focus on the day job, draft, publish and get this piece of legislation passed. He may be happy with his performance to date, but the evidence is clear for all to see, that in many regards, he is failing as a Transport Minister,” concluded Troy.