Frustrated with complaints from citizens about noise nuisance, Attorney General and Minister of Legal Affairs, Anil Nandlall has announced plans to crack down on the problem, reminding that noise nuisance is a criminal offence.

During his latest “Issues in the News” television programme, the Attorney General reminded that the making of loud continuous noise is a criminal offence, contrary to Section 174 (a) of the Summary Jurisdiction Offences Act.

He explained that Part Five of the Environmental Protection Act also makes noise nuisance a criminal offence. That Act states that any person found guilty of an offence of noise nuisance or loud noise is liable on summary conviction to a fine of not less than $300,000 or not more than $750,000 and imprisonment for a year.

The Minister said because of the gravity of the offence, the Police have been given instructions to enforce the law against those committing the act.

“I keep saying that while you can make noise and while you can play loud music, or play music you cannot play it so loud that it constitutes a nuisance to your neighbour because in the same way you have a right to listen and enjoy your music, the neighbour has a right not to hear it—and has a right to the peaceful and quiet enjoyment of his/her home,” the AG noted.

Mr. Nandlall said the issue of noise nuisance is causing tremendous problems across the country and also applies to vehicles that are playing loud music. He noted that the Police have the power to seize noise making instruments and that will be part of the enforcement.

“This pollution of our environment cannot continue unabated, it cannot continue unchecked, and the police will be acting swiftly and I have already consulted the Minister of Home Affairs and if its is we need greater penalties, then we will take the proposal to cabinet for its consideration, speaking for myself, I can’t handle loud noises,” the AG said.

The Attorney General also suggested the restarting of a campaign to seize noise making equipment, saying that too many persons seem to be exploiting the situation, because there has been little enforcement.

He said tests have already been done here to determine the acceptable decibel, and once the noise level goes above that, it becomes illegal.

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