Transport Minister Shane Ross has been slammed over not progressing with the required legislation to permit the construction of the second runway at Dublin Airport to proceed.

Fianna Fáil Spokesperson on Transport, Tourism and Sport Robert Troy TD said as the Dáil is now in summer recess, we will now have to wait until September to see the bill, let alone pass it.

Deputy Troy said: "Legislation is required that confers upon the Irish Aviation Authority competence with regard to noise controls at airports. This will enable the IAA to ensure that the concerns of local residents are addressed and also to allow construction of the much needed second runway to proceed.

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"Today, we have seen a senior figure from the industry come out strongly against the Minister's inaction.

"This is an issue I have raised at nearly every Question Time with the Minister since I was appointed as party spokesperson 13 months ago.

"Dublin Airport, and indeed, Ireland, needs a second runway, and this legislation is crucial in allowing this crucial piece of national infrastructure to proceed.

"This is yet another example of Minister Ross failing to perform his basic functions as Minister for Transport.

"A 2014 EU regulation directed noise management at airports should be undertaken by an independent airport instead of airport operators.

"Once implemented via legislation, the IAA would be the 'only body empowered to make determinations on operating restrictions to apply at the airport'."

(CD)