Councillors at the recent sittings of Kilkenny County Council and the Muncipal Districts of Kilkenny City and Castlecomer have condemned people who continue to dump waste illegally across the county.
At November's meetings, councillors were presented with local littering findings from the past year. Most categories saw a decrease in littering statistics but local representatives feel there's more work to do.
Cllr Mary Hilda Cavanagh, claimed the dumping of items such as chip bags and coffee cups was 'not acceptable', adding, offenders should be 'named and shamed' and their identities should be publicised on local media.
Cllr Cavanagh also expressed a desire to see a further roll out of CCTV to catch culprits.
Cllr Pat Fitzpatrick, echoed Ms Cavanagh's comments, stating there's a lot of 'blagarding' going on and more resources are required.
Speaking at the Kilkenny City Municipal District meeting, Cllr Andrew McGuiness bemoaned ongoing dumping in St Kieran's Cemetery, the playground on O'Loughlin Road and in local ditches and car roads.
Cllr Martin Brett, commented: "If there's enough prosecutions it'll act as a deterrent," while, Cllr John Coonan, added, litter bins in parts of the city are being abused and a budgeted plan is needed. Cllr Coonan went on to urge members of the public not use social media to highlight areas where dumping has occurred.
Amongst the findings, was a 91% increase in the illegal disposal of cigarettes during that period.
Independent councillor, Eugene McGuinness said he was 'shocked' by the finding and claimed disposing of cigarette butts incorrectly seems to be 'socially acceptable' in the current climate.
Green Party councillor, Maria Dollard expressed fears over the findings and added concerns over the prominence of disposable vapes, appealing to parents to 'talk to their young people.'
The Litter Pollution Act 1997 requires local authorities to implement a Litter Management Plan every three years. The next plan is due to begin in 2024.
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