AP / Press Association Images Milli Vanilli - the original backing track mime act AP / Press Association Images / Press Association Images

DUBLIN CITY COUNCIL (DCC) looks set to ban backing tracks for street musicians around the city.

However, the expected ban of amplifiers is not set to materialise after all.

It had previously been reported that DCC would ban amplifiers in an attempt to reduce noise pollution.

The new ban on backing tracks has been recommended by a majority vote from the Arts SPC (Strategic Policy Committee) of DCC.

“This is seen as a good way of addressing the issue of complaints over noise,” said Labour’s Rebecca Moynihan, chairperson of the SPC.

There has been a problem in terms of noise in the city, and backing tracks have been seen as being used to enhance performance, or even as a means of not performing at all.

This will allow people to continue to perform.

Amplifiers are to be banned from a certain limited area in Temple Bar, the current bounds of which are to be extended from Essex Street East as far as Anglesea Street.

Aside from that, their use will still be permitted around the city.

A Council vote to ratify the SPC’s recommendations will take place on Monday 4 July.

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