Dog fouling is repeat problem outside Mayo school

Cllr Deirdre Lawless has queried the effectiveness of council dog wardens after highlighting repetitive dog fouling outside Ballindine National School. 

A discussion on the role of dog wardens with Mayo County Council ensued at the June meeting of Claremorris-Swinford Municipal District where it was revealed that dog wardens are not on patrol but instead respond to call-outs.

“This is a repeat thing. There are hotspots where this is happening. Is there CCTV or any way we can have wardens on patrol at the school there”, Cllr Lawless asked.

Director of Services Tom Gilligan replied: “Dog fouling is the person’s responsibility. They are supposed to be taking care of their pet.” 

Cllr Richard Finn said the issue was countrywide, adding: “This is something that has to be put in charge and let’s get finance from central government. Also, our litter and traffic wardens are over-worked. These guys are flat out being taken from their traffic duties to respond to litter calls. It’s a no-win situation for them.” 

Mr Gilligan agreed to circulate the contact details of council dog wardens to councillors.