asked the Minister for Agriculture and Fisheries if he proposes to introduce legislation fixing maximum noise levels in tractor cabs similar to that in operation in England.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Tractor Noise Level.
197.
The EEC are at present considering the issue of a directive on maximum allowable noise levels in tractor cabs. If and when this directive is adopted it will be obligatory on all member countries to conform to its terms. Meanwhile, I do not propose to introduce legislation in the matter.
Would the Minister consider initiating a campaign to encourage farm workers to wear some type of ear muffs in cabs so as to protect their hearing? I understand he has to await a directive from the EEC, but perhaps he would consider the initiation of such a campaign.
As I said in the reply, this matter is under consideration and I do not think there is much point in Ireland going it alone. I do not attach that much seriousness to this. I am driving tractors for a long time and I am still able to hear.
The Minister is fairly deaf when it comes to answering some of the supplementaries.
I understand that to comply with this directive may need expensive conversion of these machines. If this is so, would the Minister consider devising a subsidy scheme to assist the various farmers concerned?
That is a separate question.