Dáil Éireann debate -
Wednesday, 22 Jan 1997

Vol. 473 No. 4

Written Answers. - Litter Pollution.

Seán Haughey

Question:

257 Mr. Haughey asked the Minister for the Environment his views regarding the soiling of beaches, walkways, parks, roads and footpaths by dogs; his views on whether the current legislation allowing for local authorities to make by-laws is satisfactory in view of the fact that anonymous complaints cannot be accommodated; if he will endeavour to have more dog wardens appointed and a publicity campaign organised in this regard in view of the health concerns involved; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [1323/97]

Minister for the Environment (Mr. Howlin)

Section 22 of the Litter Pollution Bill, 1996 proposes to make it an offence for the person in charge of a dog not to clean up when a dog fouls in certain specified public places. It is intended that this provision will apply nationally and will replace the existing permissive power enabling local authorities to make by-laws on this matter. This new obligation, when enacted, will be publicised as part of the Action Against Litter initiative. It will be for individual local authorities to consider the need for increased deployment of dog wardens in light of the new provisions.