197. Deputy Maeve O'Connell asked the Minister for Transport for an update on the response his Department has received from local authorities with regard to the development of localised operational rules for drones under the National Policy Framework for Unmanned Aircraft Systems. [46093/26]

The National Policy Framework for Unmanned Aircraft Systems acknowledges the important role local authorities will play in the integration of UAS technology into communities. The National UAS Policy Framework Monitoring Group was established earlier this year to support and monitor the overall progress of the implementation of the Policy Framework. Its membership comprises representatives of key stakeholders involved in leading and supporting implementation of Policy Framework actions, including a representative from the Local Government Management Agency (LGMA). My department has been engaging with the LGMA representative on the Monitoring Group to further engage with representatives of local authorities in relation to the regulation of UAS, the role of the Irish Aviation Authority, and the actions of Policy Framework.

The Policy Framework contains actions to assist the planning community and local authorities to manage integration of UAS technology into communities, and how to take local concerns on board. One such action is the Irish Aviation Authority supporting local authorities and planners to acquire the necessary aviation knowledge about UAS technology, regulation and oversight. The IAA is providing this ongoing support where required.

The IAA and officials from my department are holding an information session with the National Strategic Planning Unit in the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage to discuss how we might integrate and engage better on the implementation of the Policy Framework with regards to UAS in our towns and cities. My department is continuing to engage with local authorities on these matters.