New regulations governing noise pollution have come into force today.
The Environmental Noise Regulations 2006 are intended to cut unwanted or harmful outdoor sound created by road, rail and air traffic and from industrial sites.
However, the laws do not address individual cases of domestic noise.
Minister for the Environment Dick Roche
"These regulations are aimed at managing overall noise in major urban areas and around major national infrastructure, and protecting quiet areas for the benefit of everyone," said Minister for the Environment Dick Roche.
"I know that neighbourhood noise nuisance is a serious problem in many areas, and a number of options already exist to address it.
"Change is needed to protect the quality of life for people who live in major urban areas or near national infrastructure such as major roads and airports.
The regulations comply with the EU Directive 2002/49/EC relating to the assessment and management of environmental noise.
The Environmental Protection Agency will have overall responsibility for their implementation, but governance at local level will be a matter for the local authorities and Dublin Airport Authority, the National Roads Authority, Iarnrod Éireann and the Railway Procurement Agency.
PA