Drone delivery company Manna is set to present a letter of support, signed by over 400 residents from Dublin 15, to local representatives in a bid to counter growing criticism and regulatory calls surrounding its operations.
The company, which has carried out more than 36,000 drone deliveries in the area over the past 18 months, offers rapid aerial delivery of items such as takeaway food, coffee, books, and clothing. Manna claims to have received 1,883 positive customer reviews from Dublin 15 residents who have used the service.
The move to rally community support comes in response to growing concerns from some local representatives and residents regarding the impact of drone operations on privacy and noise levels.
Earlier this month, People Before Profit TD Ruth Coppinger raised the issue before the Oireachtas Transport Committee, alleging that gardens in Dublin West were being “invaded by drones,” with some residents reportedly feeling “dramatically impacted” by their frequent presence.
Meanwhile, Labour Councillor for Castleknock, John Walsh, has launched an online petition urging the Government to introduce regulations for commercial drone delivery services. The petition, which focuses on noise, privacy, and community disruption, has so far gathered nearly 900 signatures.
In response, Manna CEO Bobby Healy acknowledged that a number of residents have voiced genuine concerns about the emerging technology, noting that 112 of the petition’s signatories are from Dublin 15 postcodes. However, he emphasized that a significant majority in the area value and rely on the service.
“There is a huge majority of people in the area that use and value the service that should be listened to,” Healy said. “We’ve engaged with representatives and residents and continue to listen to feedback.”
Manna also defended the environmental impact of its operations, stating that its all-electric drones are over 99% more carbon-efficient than traditional car and van deliveries. The company argues that drone use helps reduce CO2 emissions and traffic congestion, contributing positively to sustainability efforts.
As the debate around commercial drone services intensifies, the Government faces pressure to strike a balance between innovation and regulation. The issue is likely to remain on the political agenda as communities across Ireland weigh the benefits of technological progress against local concerns.
