‘Cork people must have say on drone use’, says city councillor

Labour Party councillor for the Cork city South East ward, Peter Horgan, has called on people across Mahon, Blackrock, and the surrounding hinterlands to have their say on commercial drone use in Cork.

Following the completion of the Irish Aviation Authority’s (IAA) consultation period last week, about creating a permanent, unmanned aircraft-system geographical zone for drone deliveries in Cork city, Mr Horgan is seeking the opinions of residents to help inform future strategies.

A pilot scheme, conducted by Dublin-based company Manna, operated a fleet of drones within the airspace above the south of the city from February 19, with vendors from Cork’s Marina Market, such as Burritos & Blues, Frankie’s and La Cantina, all participating.

While CEO Bobby Healy said that Manna had received interest from retailers in Cork encouraging the launch of the scheme, up to 200 submissions and complaints were lodged with the IAA during the consultation, which closed on March 14,.

All feedback will be reviewed in accordance with the IAA, and any adjustments to the proposed zone will be made, where appropriate.

Transport committee 

Mr Horgan has since created a separate survey for residents and this will be presented at the upcoming meeting of Cork City Council’s transport committee on April 21.

Speaking to The Echo, Mr Horgan said that while drone deliveries may offer faster delivery times, reduced road congestion, and economic opportunities, it is “essential that local communities have a strong voice in shaping how and where such services operate”.

“Drone-delivery technology is advancing rapidly, and it is clear that the industry is moving to form part of how goods are transported in our cities in the future,” said Mr Horgan.

“However, residents’ concerns around noise, privacy, safety, and visual impact must be taken seriously and addressed from the outset,” he said.

“The national framework recognises that public trust and societal acceptance are critical to the successful integration of drones in to everyday life, and encourages local authorities to consider the implications of drone infrastructure and operations within planning and development policies.

“Before drone deliveries become a more common sight in our skies, we need to ensure that Cork’s communities are fully informed and have the opportunity to shape local policy.”

Mr Horgan is seeking submissions from impacted residents, community groups, residents’ associations, local businesses — especially retail and hospitality — as well as parents, schools, and organisations concerned about safety and privacy.

To take part in the survey, visit: https://tinyurl.com/4da6u6vx.