asked the Minister for Local Government if he is aware of the growing contamination of roadsides and scenic areas in proximity to Dublin city by reason of the dumping by motorists of domestic and other refuse in such places; if he is satisfied that the county councils of Dublin, Wicklow, Kildare and Meath are sufficiently active in preventing and remedying such dumping; if he will introduce legislation to provide more severe penalties for and more effective means to combat such dumping; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Dumping of Refuse.
101.
As I stated in reply to a question on 27th April, 1972, responsibility for enforcement of the law relating to the dumping of refuse, as laid down in the Local Government (Sanitary Services) Acts, rests with the local sanitary authority concerned. The problem appears to be that of difficulty in identifying offenders rather than one of deficiency in the law.
I have asked sanitary authorities to review their refuse collecting and dumping arrangements and facilities with a view to discouraging dumping and also to clear away dumped material lying in unauthorised places. I understand that steps to combat the problem are being taken by the local authorities in the areas mentioned.
Is the Minister aware that under the present law it is necessary for a county council official to enter the courts as a common informer in a private prosecution if he wishes to prosecute somebody for an offence which is referred to in this question, that this matter would be more appropriately dealt with in the normal way where prosecutions are taken under the aegis of the Attorney General, and that a change of this nature would relieve county councils of unwanted and embarrassing responsibility?
I will have that point considered.