Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 7 May 2026
213. Deputy Eoghan Kenny asked the Minister for Transport if he will add an organisation (details supplied) to the list of blue light operators to allow them to operate drones without clearance in emergency situations; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33919/26]
View answerThe use of "Blue Lights" by specific emergency services is regulated by road traffic legislation. The relevant regulations outline the specific emergency services vehicles that are permitted to fit blue emergency lights and sirens and specifies their use. The legislation does not provide for any special conditions for the operation of drones by emergency services.
From an aviation safety perspective emergency services liaise with the relevant air traffic control to advise them that they are operating an aircraft or drone in an area and in some circumstances to get clearance to launch. This allows air traffic control to ensure that emergency services have absolute priority in terms of the use of airspace, and for all non-emergency drone activity to be paused immediately to ensure safe access for emergency services to the airspace.
If an organisation is tasked by An Garda Síochána to assist in an emergency by launching a drone, An Garda Síochána will liaise with air traffic control to inform them.
