Stumped Fete affected by EMA
*updated to include EMA’s response.
Red Ants released a press release apologizing to its patrons after the Stumped 2018 Fete.
Apparently during Machel Montano’s performance the sound levels were reduced thereby impacting on Machel Montano’s performance.
Red Ants stated that they were above the decibel limit allowed by EMA for the area.
We will wait to see what impact this will have on Carnival Events being held at the OVAL for 2018
The full press release is below.
Soon after EMA issued its own release stating that
Noise pollution is not a prerequisite for hosting a successful event.
There was a lot of support for EMA’s actions on social media. In particular from person’s living in the Woodbrook area. See below for the full media release from EMA.
MEDIA RELEASE
January 15th 2018 (FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE)
EMA COMMITTED TO UPHOLDING THE LAW
6:00pm Port of Spain:- The Environmental Management Authority (EMA) reminds the public and event promoters of the requirement to apply for, obtain and abide by a Noise Variation Permit where amplified sound equipment will be used. This legal requirement is in accordance with the Noise Pollution Control Rules (NPCR).
A Noise Variation Permit issued by the EMA sets out the sound levels that an event promoter is allowed to emit. It also identifies the measures that the event promoter must put in place to minimise disturbance to nearby sensitive receptors such as homes, schools, hospitals, places of religious worship and homes for the elderly.
To protect the health and wellbeing of sensitive receptors, the NPCR prescribes standards* in three (3) areas-: 1) General; 2) Environmentally Sensitive, and 3) Industrial areas. In ‘general areas’ such as Woodbrook, St. Clair, Port-of-Spain and environs, the night-time (8pm-8am) level is 65 decibels.
With a Noise Variation Permit, an event promoter is allowed to exceed the prescribed level. Holders of a Noise Variation Permit are required to adhere to the set decibel levels. In cases where no Noise Variation is obtained by the event promoter, the regular (daytime or nighttime) prescribed levels must be observed.
The issue of noise pollution and the negative effects it has on human and animal health featured prominently in public consultations held by the Authority in 2017 during the revision of the National Environmental Policy (NEP). This is supported by the significant number of noise complaints received by the EMA via its Hotline and Social Media accounts.
Carnival is an integral element of our tradition and culture in Trinidad and Tobago and provides livelihoods to many citizens. However, this must be balanced with the right of all to enjoy property, peace, and wellbeing.
The EMA congratulates promoters of Carnival events who adhere to the NPCR and cause minimal disruption to nearby residents. Noise pollution is not a prerequisite for hosting a successful event.
—END—
