‘Key driver of dumping’ - Warning made to highlight illegal waste collectors in Kilkenny

Kilkenny County Council is urging the public to remain vigilant against illegal waste collectors operating across Kilkenny City and County, as part of ongoing efforts to tackle illegal dumping and protect the environment.

The Council says operators offering ‘cheap’ waste collection services are contributing significantly to illegal dumping in rural areas, back roads, laneways and urban locations. It added that waste handed over to unauthorised collectors is frequently dumped illegally, resulting in serious environmental damage and costly clean-ups.

The local authority urged people to check before handing over their waste while households and businesses were reminded that all waste collectors must hold a valid waste collection permit.

Before engaging any collector, the public is strongly advised to verify their credentials via the National Waste Collection Permit Office (NWCPO) www.nwcpo.ie and only authorised collectors listed on the NWCPO register are legally permitted to collect waste.

Illegal dumping caused by unpermitted operators has serious consequences such as damage to local environments, wildlife and waterways; negative impacts on tourism and community wellbeing and financial burden on taxpayers.

SEE ALSO: Kilkenny student receives prestigious JP McManus All-Ireland Scholarship Award - Kilkenny Live

The Council added that every illegally dumped site must be investigated, cleared and monitored, diverting valuable public resources away from essential services.

Under the Waste Management Act 1996 (as amended) and the Litter Pollution Act 1997, it is an offence to collect waste without a valid permit, transfer waste to an unauthorised collector or dispose of waste of waste in an illegal manner.

Penalties include on-the-spot fines of up to €500, court fines of up to €5,000 on summary conviction or fines of up to €15 million and/or imprisonment on conviction or indictment.

The Council said that members of the public should be aware that they remain responsible for their waste and that if waste is found illegally dumped and traced back to someone, that person may face enforcement action.

Kilkenny County Council is encouraging the public to report any individuals or services they suspect of operating without a valid waste collection permit.

Edel Brett, Executive Engineer in the Environment Department said: “Illegal waste collectors are a key driver of dumping across Kilkenny. While their services may appear convenient, they are causing long-term damage to our environment and placing a financial burden on every taxpayer.”

Mags Whelan, Environmental Education and Awareness Officer added: “We are asking the public to take a moment to check that their waste collector is authorised. A simple check on the NWCPO website can prevent illegal dumping and protect our communities.”

The Council concluded by saying that it continues to work proactively through enforcement, monitoring and public awareness campaigns to address illegal dumping and unauthorised waste collection.

It added that if in doubt, check it out; and to protect your community by disposing of waste responsibly. 

TAP HERE FOR MORE LOCAL NEWS

Article funded by the Local Democracy Reporting Scheme