The Environmental Noise Regulations 2006 (S.I. No. 140 of 2006) give effect in Ireland to EU Directive 2002/49/EC relating to the assessment and management of environmental noise. The Environmental Protection Agency is the national authority with overall responsibility for implementing the Regulations. Implementation at local level is a matter for local authorities concerned, Dublin Airport Authority, the National Roads Authority, Iarnród Éireann and the Railway Procurement Agency.
The Regulations require the preparation of strategic noise maps and action plans for areas and infrastructure falling within defined criteria, e.g. large agglomerations, and major roads, railways and airports. Through implementation of the 2006 Regulations, work on giving effect to the Directive is ongoing and I am not aware of any concern in relation to meeting the July 2008 deadline in Article 8.1 of the Directive.