12th August 1999
Threat of aircraft noise in South Dublin
A major threat to living conditions is caused by the proposal to develop Baldonnel for commercial flights. The likely flight path for planes crosses Terenure, Templeogue and Tallaght when there is a west wind, as is usually the case.
Once a decision is taken to develop Baldonnel as a commercial airport the flight paths will not be up for negotiation, as for economic reasons only the most direct flight paths will be considered.
No doubt it would be convenient for those flying to have an airport so close at hand. But those who will have to live underneath frequent low-flying planes even during the night will not be so enthusiastic.
The answer to the difficulty of travelling to Dublin Airport lies in the development of a rail or light rail link to the Airport, with adequate connections from the south side of the City.
It should not be assumed that air travel will continue growing at recent rates. The ³Celtic Tiger² is unlikely to last for ever, and there is a limit to the number of tourists that can be absorbed by the Dublin region.
John Goodwillie
Green Party
Contact: John Goodwillie: tel. 454 0194