A proposal to ban buskers using amplifiers is set to come before the next Galway City Council meeting on July 21 - the latest in a long line of calls to see buskers revert to ‘unplugged’ performances.
The motion is being brought forward by Fianna Fáil councillor Ollie Crowe, following representations from city centre businesses which have “expressed their frustration at the level of noise amplified busking is causing”.
Cllr Crowe was keen to point out that he is not calling for a ban on busking itself, only a ban on buskers using amplifiers.
“Busking has long been associated with the city centre and is most welcome, creating an atmosphere and adding to the buzz of the city,” he said. “It has also been the launchpad for many successful careers including those of Paddy Casey and KeyWest.”
Cllr Crowe said the problem lies in the level of volume generated by the amplifiers. “The volume is simply too loud,” he said. He cited the example of one business owner on Shop Street who said a number of customers left his premises “due to the level of noise”, while another customer requested the doors be closed “such was the level of discomfort being caused by amplified busking”.
The Fianna Fáil councillor is hoping to receive the backing of the other 17 elected members for his proposal.
