AN EFFORT is being made to quieten buskers who ply their trade on Galway’s city centre streets.
A local councillor has tabled a motion to be discussed at today’s meeting of Galway City Council calling for a ban on the musicians using amplifiers.
Cllr Terry O’Flaherty wants a ban on street entertainers or speakers using amplification – excluding festivals – as part of new bylaws which are due for discussion today.
It is proposed to ban busking between midnight and 9am during the tourist season.
The Independent councillor stressed she is not against buskers.
“They are an integral part of our city’s culture as well as being a major tourist attraction. But amplified street entertainment must be brought under control,” she said.
Cllr O’Flaherty said the noise from amplified buskers was unfair on shop workers and city centre residents, while they did nothing to boost the city’s tourism industry.
“There are a number of serious issues arising due to the lack of control over this situation, especially the employees working in the various businesses in these areas have to endure loud music.
“It is the same for the residents of the city centre area and also people that shop there.”
Cllr O’Flaherty said she has recommended that there should be a ban on amplification, with the exception of street festivals such as the Macnas parade, the St Patrick’s Day parade and other various festivals which could be dealt with separately.