Dáil Éireann díospóireacht -
Wednesday, 10 May 2000

Vol. 518 No. 6

Written Answers. - ESRI Survey.

Bernard Allen

Ceist:

341 Mr. Allen asked the Minister for Health and Children if he has received a copy of a survey carried out by the ESRI on behalf of the Centre for Insurance Studies, UCD, which showed that there are greater problems among children today than in previous generations in relation to hearing problems, which indicates that young people's hearing is being affected by noise levels; and if he will, as a result, have his Department investigate noise levels in discos and other public areas of entertainment. [13004/00]

Minister for Health and Children (Mr. Martin)

I am advised that copies of the survey referred to were forwarded to my Department and are being looked at by departmental medical officers. Noise pollution as a problem within the built environment is on the increase. It is estimated that 20% of the population in the European Union are exposed to noise levels higher than those recommended by the World Health Organisation. With regard to noise levels in discos and public entertainment areas I am advised that there are maximum noise levels set under occupational health and safety requirements and inspectors from the Occupational Health and Safety Authority visit premises in this regard.