Dog fouling fine increases but implementation remains a problem

The fine for dog fouling in Mayo has been increased to €250, but it remains challenging to identify owners who do not clean up after their pets, a meeting of Mayo County Council's Environment an Climate Change Strategic Policy Committee (SPC) has been told.

Cllr Peter Flynn said a recent report showing Mayo County Council had issued no dog littering fines this year proved how difficult it is to police the problem and said there is a need for a changed mindset on the matter.

SPC member Graham Cawdell said he was aware that in France the issue is managed by the council cleaning up day and night at beaches.

SPC chairperson Cllr Harry Barrett said it was a huge issue in the area of Pontoon Road in Castlebar.

“Some signage seems to have helped and 99% of dog owners are compliant, but it is difficult to police walkers especially the early morning and late evening walkers," he said.

Cllr Donna Sheridan agreed it is a “horrible issue” but said there are also foxes around at night and so it is not just a case of dog foul. She added: “There are people who just don’t clean up after their pets, we would support any initiative to deal with the small percentage who just won’t do it.” 

Climate Action Officer Laura Heneghan said the council’s environmental awareness team is running a dog fouling campaign this month, highlighting that the fine has increased from €150 to €250.

Following suggestions of a contact point for members of the public to send in photos and reports on instances of dog fouling, Director of Services Joanne Grehan said management would look at coming up with some ideas to tackle the problem.

• Published as part of the Local Democracy Reporting Scheme.