There are calls for an end to "repeated delays" to a second runway at Dublin Airport.

Ryanair is asking the Attorney-General's department to speed up legislation, so the Irish Aviation Authority (IAA) can monitor noise regulation.

It claims this is "vital and urgent" infrastructure, as runway capacity at Dublin is full at peak times.

The carrier says the runway is critical to continued growth, especially in the run up to - and after - Brexit.

Ryanair chief Michael O'Leary says: "Ryanair is unable to base additional aircraft at Dublin because there are no spare slots in the early morning for additional departures.

""We call on the Government, the Department of Transport, and the Attorney-General's office to explain these repeated delays and confirm when this necessary noise legislation will be implemented by statutory instrument to allow Dublin's second runway to proceed."

A spokesperson says Transport Minister Shame Ross "is fully committed to promoting the development of airport capacity".

"The short term requirement in this regard is the new runway at Dublin Airport that is being progressed by the daa."

The minister published a policy statement last September over the reduction of aircraft noise.

"The delivery of legislation in line with this statement is what is being referred to by Mr O'Leary and the minister’s officials are continuing to work closely with the Office of the Attorney-General to bring that necessary legislation forward", the spokesperson says.

The spokesperson adds it's "complex legislation and the fact of the matter is that it takes time".

An Bord Pleanála granted planning permission to build a 3,110 metre runway - known as North Runway - in 2007.

But it was put on hold due to the economic downturn.