Ireland must not 'fall behind' in developing drone technology, Dáil committee to hear

Dáil to hear there has been a 'decisive shift in how nations are embracing drones, not just as niche tools, but as mainstream infrastructure', saying the UK, US and Canada have invested heavily in their use and 'Ireland should not fall behind'. File picture: Dan Linehan

Ireland "must not fall behind" in drone technology, TDs and senators will be warned on Wednesday.

The Oireachtas transport committee will meet to discuss the use of unmanned aircraft systems, hearing from stakeholders, including the Irish Aviation Authority (IAA).

In his opening submission, Professor Gerard Dooly of the University of Limerick will tell politicians drones could be vital to shifts in how a number of industries operate.

"Recent developments have sparked debate, particularly regarding the frequency and noise of drone delivery operations. While these concerns are understandable, I want to stress that the technology itself is not the core issue. 

"The real challenge lies in how we regulate, deploy, and engage with the public on the use of drones in a way that supports both innovation and community wellbeing."

Professor Dooly will say there has been a "decisive shift in how nations are embracing drones, not just as niche tools, but as mainstream infrastructure", saying the UK, US and Canada have invested heavily in their use and "Ireland should not fall behind".

Drones are not just for delivery. They are reshaping agriculture, construction, habitat monitoring, infrastructure inspection, and emergency services. 

"They reduce risk, lower emissions, and create high-value jobs. With the right supports, Ireland can lead, not just in flying drones, but in building the smart, safe systems they rely on."

The committee will also hear from Manna, a company whose drones have led to noise complaints from residents in Dublin 15. Its chief executive Bobby Healy will say of its 108 complaints overall this year, 22% were from customers. Mr Healy will tell TDs and senators he believes his company can become the next Irish multinational.

Mr Healy will say drone delivery "offers a faster, greener and safer way forward" and in Dublin 15 alone, the company's flights help avoid more than 3,500kg of CO₂ emissions every month.

He will say while the company's drones make a sound, it is "noticeable, but generally unobtrusive" and while cruising at 80m, they emit a noise of about 57 decibels, which he will say is "quieter than a conversation". 

He will say that company is developing technology which is 40% quieter. Mr Healy will say his company "welcomes regulation" and is "looking beyond takeaway".

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In his opening statement, Jim Gavin, the chief operating officer of the IAA, will say Ireland has led the way in drone regulation and drone operations "continue to grow and innovate across Europe and in Ireland".

"Today, more than 8,000 drone operators and 23,000 remote pilots are registered with the IAA," he will say.

"The IAA understands the commercial appetite for future growth, innovation and opportunity with the expanding use of drones for societal, recreational and business purposes."

However, Mr Gavin will say the IAA's priority will be the safe operation of drones.