Vol. 497 No. 7
170 Ms O. Mitchell asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if he will ensure that every member of the Garda has a knowledge of the provisions of the Litter Pollution Act, 1997, and carries an on-the-spot fine book at all times. [26140/98]
As the Deputy may be aware the Litter Pollution Act, 1997, empowers members of the Garda Síochána, litter wardens and dog wardens to issue a fine on the spot notice for litter offences.
I am informed by the Garda authorities that instructions have been issued to all members of the force on the provisions of the Litter Pollution Act, 1997. Procedures for the full implementation of the Act have been and are being developed in consultation with the local authorities.
I understand that the Department of the Environment and Local Government has issued the necessary instructions to the local authorities, who are responsible for publishing and distributing these notices to local Garda divisions but that five Garda divisions have not yet received the necessary documentation. I will take this matter up with the Minister for the Environment and Local Government.
