It is a fact that the few legal instruments directed at the abatement of noise are not being enforced; or the regulations are ineffective. Evidence is the legal action taken or proposed by the residents against the effect of amplified music from entertainment establishments.

The Noise Abatement Society of Malta had raised these and other issues with the concerned authorities and local councils.

It is pathetic that the onus ison the public or NGOs to bethe watchdog for irregularitiespertaining to the environment or the public health.

In the case of noise nuisance, reporting it to the authorities might, after prolonged intervention, lead to a reduction but it is rarely permanent and never a just-in-time solution.

There are pending cases where the operators, although infringing one or several regulations, are still at liberty to cause untold hardship to the residents by playing loud music.

The operator of a catering establishment is entitled to play amplified music but the residents have the right to the quiet enjoyment of their property.

The authorities are failing to protect the health of the public by their indifference to the suffering of those exposed to chronic noise pollution. Their inaction is sending a message that business is first at the expense of everything else!

The authorities are failing in their duty to review existing regulations and enact new legislation to be in line with European Union and World Health Organisation guidelines regarding community noise.