South and East Belfast Sinn Féin -- Building an Ireland of Equals

Low flying jet incident highlights airport expansion fears

Published: 14 September, 2009

East Belfast Sinn Féin representative Niall Ó Donnghaile has said that news that Belfast City Airport are to investigate an incident which occurred yesterday, in which it is believe that a low flying jet was responsible for smashing roof tiles on an East Belfast house, highlights the genuine concerns that many residents in the area have about proposals to expand the airport.


Niall Ó Donnghaile said,

"Reports are that around 30 tiles came off the roof of a home which is situated along a flight-path used for the Airport. It is believed that this was caused by a low-flying aircraft. Indeed, a spokesperson or the airport has said that they will investigate the matter.


"There little doubt that this was an extremely dangerous incident, with children playing nearby it is only luck that someone was not killed."


He continued,

"This incident, once again, highlights the validity of the concerns being raised about proposals to expand the airport. These concerns have been highlighted by local residents over a long period of time.


"While I recognise the importance of having a functioning city airport and commend them for the service they provide, the reality is that this service cannot be at the expense of public health and safety."

CRÍOCH