Michael Mulcahy (Dublin South Central, Fianna Fail)

Noise is a serious problem in modern, urban society. I have been involved with this issue for a number of years, particularly in my role as a city councillor and Lord Mayor. I commend the Green Party on the introduction of this sensible, imaginative legislation, which while not perfect, is badly needed.

I read with interest the contribution of the Minister of State, Deputy Batt O'Keeffe, in which he pointed out the legislative provisions on noise. That is all well and good, but for a number of years the main problem has been enforcement. Local authorities have not taken any interest in noise pollution and that is the reason this Bill is so welcome. It is a first stab at making local authorities responsible for enforcement, which is what it is all about.

Some parts of the Bill are too weak. Section 3 suggests a local authority "may" act if it receives a complaint. This should be a requirement and should read "shall".

See this speech in context