Residents in Dublin 15 have voiced concerns over fast food delivery drones operated by Manna, citing noise, planning questions, and community consultation. A public meeting is scheduled for Monday, October 6th at 7pm in the Crowne Plaza Hotel, Blanchardstown, where residents will discuss their concerns.
The local group Drone Action D15, formed this summer in a local constituency office, has criticised Manna for its drone operations, alleging misleading claims about noise, community engagement, and respect for “no-fly” requests. Members describe the drone noise as “sharper, more intrusive and impossible to tune out,” pointing to studies linking repetitive drone noise with stress, poor sleep, and anxiety.
Spokesperson Michael Dooley said: "The people of Dublin 15 are not being listened to while we can hear the drones loud and clear as they pass over our homes, gardens, parks and recreational spaces multiple times a day. We chose to live in quiet residential areas and we were here before peace-shattering and privacy-busting Manna started its operations without community consultation.”
However, Manna has emphasised the scale and support for its operations, stating that it has completed over 46,000 deliveries in Dublin 15, employs more than 50 people locally, supports 47 small businesses, and creates around 35 new jobs in every new area it launches. A spokesperson said: “Manna launched in Dublin 15 just over 20 months ago and has since completed more than 40,000 deliveries — with overwhelmingly positive support from local residents and businesses. We remain focused on delivering a service that real people use and value every day — families, older residents, and local businesses creating employment. That’s where our energy belongs.”
The company highlights its extensive community engagement since February 2024, including leafleting, public meetings, school visits, drone demonstrations, and meetings with local representatives. Manna also states that requests for no-fly zones are available to residents.
Manna’s statement also notes that Drone Action D15 has around 30 members, received support from a local politician, and circulates anonymous leaflets — raising questions about transparency and data collection practices under GDPR. The company says it requested to attend the group’s initial open meeting but was ignored.
One D15 resident, whose name has been redacted for privacy, told Manna: “We have an autistic son which makes going out to restaurants and supermarkets virtually impossible, so having Manna deliver things to us is a game changer for our quality of life. He loves seeing the drones coming to our house and jumps around the garden with joy when they arrive.” Another D15 resident stated: “During the last stages of my pregnancy, it was honestly a lifesaver. Getting out to pick up even small bits was tough, but Manna made it so easy - whether it was something I’d forgotten or just a treat to keep me going. It took a load off my mind and gave me time to focus on staying well and preparing for the baby.”
Drone Action D15 stresses that they are not opposed to drones entirely, acknowledging their potential use for emergency services and other socially beneficial functions, but argue that fast food deliveries should not fly over residential areas.
With Manna planning to expand into Dundrum, Tallaght, and Cork, both residents and the company agree that the issue extends beyond Dublin 15. The discussion highlights a broader debate over residential privacy, community consultation, and the use of drone technology in urban areas.
@radionova100fmSome love ‘em, some don’t… D15 has seen multiple Manna drones delivering food and groceries to residents What do the locals think? We were out in Blanchardstown today, and asked them ♬ vlog, chill out, calm daily life(1370843) - SUNNY HOOD STUDIO
