278   Restrictions on noise abatement directions

(1)  A noise abatement direction (other than a direction given by an authorised officer appointed by the EPA) has no force in so far as it is directed to:

(a)  the State or a person acting on behalf of the State, or

(b)  a public authority or a person in the capacity of a member, officer or employee of a public authority, or

(c)  a person or body prescribed by the regulations for the purposes of this paragraph.

(2)  A noise abatement direction (other than a direction given by an authorised officer appointed by the EPA) has no force in so far as it would have the result of affecting:

(a)  any activity carried on by or for the State or a public authority, or

(b)  any scheduled activity, or any other activity or work that is the subject of an environment protection licence, or

(c)  any activity of a class or description prescribed by the regulations for the purposes of this paragraph.