I would like to begin by clarifying that as Minister for Transport I have no role in determining the criteria for the insulation or voluntary dwelling purchase schemes.
That said, I have consistently emphasised the importance of daa acting as a good neighbour to those impacted by airport operations and the need for meaningful engagement with local communities on these issues.
In this regard, I wrote to daa in October last year and again in March of this year, reiterating the importance of sustained engagement with local communities most directly impacted by aircraft noise. In those letters, I also requested updates on what measures daa was considering strengthening in its noise mitigation programme.
daa has subsequently advised that under the relevant planning conditions, eligibility for all three noise mitigation schemes, including the Voluntary Dwelling Purchase Scheme, are subject to review every two years, with the next review due to commence in the coming months. This review will be based on 2025 operational and noise data, ensuring that the assessment accurately reflects the actual noise environment experienced by local communities. This is an important mechanism to ensure that supports remain aligned with real world impacts.
It is also worth noting that the Aircraft Noise Competent Authority (ANCA) published its draft regulatory decision on daa’s Infrastructure Application on 28 May 2026. ANCA is currently undertaking a 14-week public consultation process in relation to that draft decision and on the measures proposed to address any noise impacts arising on foot of granting permission for that planning application. I encourage all those with an interest in the outcome of this assessment to participate fully in the process.
Finally, in relation to the Dublin Airport (Passenger Capacity) Bill 2026, the Bill proposes to empower me in my capacity as the Minister for Transport to make an order to amend or revoke the passenger cap at Dublin Airport. When enacted, and in advance of making an order, the Bill proposes that I will engage with An Coimisiúin Pleanála who will carry out the necessary environmental assessments under EU law, and I will take account of the outcome of those assessments in making an order. I intend to commence the process for the necessary environmental assessments as soon as the Bill is enacted and I am committed to ensuring that the assessments are completed within the strict timelines set out in the Bill and an Order is made to amend or revoke the passenger cap as soon as possible.
