Kerry County Council, in a recent revelation, has imposed a total of 27 fines for dog fouling in the past year, marking the highest figure among all local authorities. While this step has been commended as a deterrent, criticism has arisen due to the relatively low number of fines attributed to this offense. The recurring problem of dog fouling has been consistently raised by local council members, who have received complaints from the public. Moreover, the issue has now taken on new significance as it emerges as a top concern for individuals with visual impairments.
In light of recent data collection, the National Council for the Blind (NCBI) conducted a comprehensive survey that assessed dog fouling statistics. The survey also encompassed the collection of data related to fines for vehicles parked on footpaths – an issue identified as another severe hazard for individuals with visual impairments.
According to the statistical insights, a mere 82 dog fouling fines were administered by local authorities throughout Ireland over the course of the past year. Strikingly, eighteen councils opted not to levy any fines at all, while Kerry County Council stood out with the highest count of 27 fines issued.
Remarkably, the 2021 survey also carried out by NCBI showcased Kerry County Council’s issuance of 31 similar fines.
Presently, in the current year, Kerry County Council has issued a total of nine fines for dog fouling. Notably, no such fines have been registered in the Killarney area. However, a total of three fines each have been recorded in the Tralee MD area, the Chorcha Dhuibne/Castleisland area, and the Listowel MD area. Additionally, one fine has been administered in the Kenmare MD area.
Legally mandated under the Litter Pollution Act 1997, dog owners are obliged to promptly clean up after their pets in public spaces, with defaulters facing fines amounting to €150. The repercussions of non-payment of these initial fines can escalate, with potential penalties of up to €3,000 upon conviction.
Recently disclosed figures from Kerry County Council, released to Councillor Cathal Foley (Sinn Féin) in the Tralee MD, reveal that only three dog fouling fines were issued in the early months of this year within the Tralee area. Responding to the persisting concern, Councillor Foley emphasized the need to address the issue comprehensively.
Beyond dog fouling, Kerry County Council has additionally issued a total of 379 fines for vehicles parked on footpaths. Remarkably, Dublin City Council has emerged as the leader in this domain, issuing a staggering 4,494 fines.
Earlier this year, Kerry County Council launched an educational initiative in collaboration with local schools to raise awareness about the implications of dog fouling. During the launch, Breda Moriarty, Environmental Awareness Officer with Kerry County Council, highlighted the aesthetic and communal damages caused by dog fouling. Moriarty underlined how this issue particularly affects vulnerable members of society such as children, those with visual impairments, and wheelchair users.
This week, NCBI unveiled their “Clear Our Paths” campaign, which spotlights the obstacles confronted by individuals with visual impairments.
Reflecting on the dog fouling data, the Chief Services Officer of NCBI emphasized that local councils cannot solely bear the responsibility of regulating this issue. He stressed that the public’s active participation in cleaning up after their pets is pivotal. He added, “It’s imperative that we all work to make our footpaths usable for all members in our communities.”
