Fears drones will cause accident in scenic Gap of Dunloe

Small drones, operated by visitors, have become an increasing worry in the steep and scenic mountain pass of the Gap of Dunloe.

Councillors in Kerry are to ask the Irish Aviation Authority to restrict the use of drones around in the Gap of Dunloe.

Small drones, operated by visitors, have become an increasing worry in the steep and scenic mountain pass.

The glacial valley is popular with walkers, cyclists and is traditionally crossed on ponies and horses.

Fears are mounting that the buzzing sound of the increasing use of drones will startle the horses drawing tourist traps.

The matter was raised at the meeting of Kenmare Municipal District Council when Fine Gael councillor Teddy O’Sullivan Casey said walkers in the Gap had been startled by drones buzzing over their heads.

“As a very important safety measure, can Kerry County Council erect signs prohibiting the use of drones around horses on the Gap of Dunloe?” Mr O’Sullivan Casey asked.

However, Kerry County Council officials said they cannot prohibit their use, even in scenic areas, nor erect signage warning against drone use.

Regulation of drone use is a function of the Irish Aviation Authority (IAA), council officials said.

“The council has no legal basis to prohibit the use of drones in any part of the county, including the Gap of Dunloe, therefore the council is not in a position to erect this signage,” a council report on the matter said.

“Owners of drones over 250g, or those with a camera or sensor are legally obliged to register with the IAA,” the council said.

Online training for operators is mandatory for those registered and inappropriate drone use could also be reported to An Garda Síochána, “if there is an immediate risk of injury, breach of privacy or security rules or causing a general nuisance,” the meeting heard.

The council is now to seek further advice from the IAA on erecting signs.

::This article is funded by the Local Democracy Scheme