Paudge Connolly (Cavan-Monaghan, Independent)

I am sharing time with Deputies McHugh, Catherine Murphy and Ó Snodaigh.

I want to support this Bill, which is long overdue. It is one we welcome, seeking as it does to put order on an already fragmented situation as regards noise control. Increased urbanisation, industrialisation and high density traffic have resulted in escalating noise levels leading to noise pollution. Noise pollution is the intrusion of unwanted uncontrollable and unpredictable sounds into the lives of individuals, affecting sensitivities. Unwanted sounds or noises can be traced back to Old Testament references to loud music and barking dogs. Indeed last night in the House, our colleague, Deputy Finian McGrath, brought in a device to control biting, whatever about barking, dogs.

Even in ancient Rome, residents complained about noisy delivery wagons on the cobbled streets. Hence, this is not a new problem. The industrial revolution, the growth of cities and rising demand for transport have all contributed to making the world even more noisy. As the modern world is so dependent on, and enchanted with, noise-producing and noise-related technology, such as cars, trains, aircraft, helicopters, motorcycles, jet skis and amplified music in car stereo systems, the increase in the ambient noise level continues to accelerate.

Unfortunately, noise pollution, unlike air, water, land or soil pollution has not been taken seriously. A display of bravado towards noise levels may be seen on building sites and other workplaces. As has been seen in the past regarding Army deafness claims, people do not wear protective gear and the issue is not treated with any degree of seriousness.

Many other issues arise in this regard. It has been stated that the average age for capacity reduction in hearing has fallen from 70 plus to 60 plus in the past 20 years. Many factors affect us subconsciously. Studies have shown that exposure to 75 decibels, a relatively low level of noise equivalent to the average washing machine, for more than eight hours can have an impact on hearing loss. Tinnitus, the permanent ringing sensation in one's ears can be caused by noise from an exploding firework. Hence, many noise levels exist and awareness must be raised in this regard. I compliment the Green Party on introducing this Bill.

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