Shane Ross (Dublin Rathdown, Independent) | Oireachtas source

I thank the Acting Chair. To be clear, once a regulatory decision is made by the noise regulator, that is not the end of the process. Some Senators were under the impression that it was. As mentioned, any regulatory decision is subject to appeal. Apart from that course of action, however, the noise regulator has a strong role to play in the continued monitoring of the noise situation at the airport. The regulator will not only monitor compliance with noise mitigation measures and operating restrictions but will also examine their continued effectiveness. In this regard, the council has the ability to bring forward the five-year assessment process if it sees fit. The noise regulator has the power to enforce a regulatory decision and will work closely with the planning authority in the enforcement of planning conditions.

I also wish to respond to pleas for further engagements. Senator Reilly made a compelling case that perhaps there should be further engagements, and I am willing to ask my officials, before it is too late, to meet Senators Reilly and Craughwell and others who want to engage further.

Senator Clifford-Lee was extraordinarily critical of my attitude to the residents. She said that I was treating locals with contempt. I remind her that I met the Portmarnock residents' association and Senator Clifford-Lee at her request in 2016.