Olivia Mitchell
Question:363 Ms O. Mitchell asked the Minister for the Environment and Local Government if he will increase the standard of noise insulation when the proposed increase in thermal insulation is being considered. [25163/01]
Written Answers. - Noise Insulation Standards.
My immediate priority has been to increase thermal performance and insulation standards for new dwellings with effect from 1 July 2002 and to publish corresponding standards for non-residential buildings by the end of the 2002. This is necessary because of Ireland's obligation to stabilise greenhouse gas emissions under the Kyoto Protocol. With this in view, I have recently published consultation documents on the proposed amendment of part L of the national building regulations relating to conservation of fuel and energy.
My Department plans to initiate a review of sound insulation standards in consultation with the building regulations advisory body in 2003.