asked the Minister for Local Government if, in view of medical evidence that very loud sounds can have detrimental effects on the health and physical welfare of people, he will take steps to lower the high noise tone of dance hall bands.
Ceisteanna — Questions. Oral Answers. - Dance Hall Bands.
41.
While there is evidence that loud noise may be detrimental to hearing if exposure is continuous or repeated at short intervals, I am not sure that dance patrons suffer such effects. The loud amplification seems to be expected and the risk, if there is one, is voluntarily accepted. This is not an easy situation to deal with by statutory control.
Noise, including its adverse effects at different intensities, is a matter included in the EEC environment programme for examination and the subject is also being studied by other international organisations. It is hoped that this work will provide firmer knowledge as to the risks of hearing impairment and a basis for reasonable control if such is necessary.
The Minister states that young people have a choice. Surely their only choice is to accept it. What is the level in decibels?
First of all, they have a choice. They do not have to go and if it is too high they can go home or turn it down. In regard to the level of decibels, that is a question that should be addressed to the Minister for Health because I would not have any knowledge of it.
This was originally addressed to the Minister for Health and I do not know how it came to the Minister for Local Government. I should like to know if it is the officials of the Department of Local Government who would take the level of sound.
No.
I believe Deputy Coogan may have something in his question. Would the Minister ensure that the loud noises that are now coming from the Fine Gael election rooms would be curtailed?
I am quite sure the noises coming from the Fianna Fáil rooms have been turned down so much that the others appear to be louder.