Laois launches new campaign against dog poo
Cathaoirleach Barry Walsh with Laois Co Council staff at the launch of the new anti-dog fouling campaign in Portlaoise. Photo: Michael Scully
A NEW battle in the ongoing war against dog fouling has been launched by Laois County Council.
Cathaoirleach Cllr Barry Walsh was joined by council officials for the launch of the latest anti-dog fouling campaign for the county, which was appropriately held at the popular walking spot of the People's Park - Páirc an Phobail - in Portlaoise on Friday 1 August.
The campaign aims to promote responsible dog ownership and encourage dog owners to clean up after their dogs, through various mediums.
The issue of dog fouling is an ongoing and escalating problem on footpaths, parks and open spaces in Portlaoise and around the county, as people are out walking more in the summer evenings.
The problem is not only disgusting but can also pose a serious health hazard.
The council is urging dog owners always to pick up after their dog using their own scooping device or bag, or one of the free dog poo bags provided around the county.
They should then dispose of it in the nearest litter bin or bring it home and place it in their own general household bin.
Laois County Council promotes an “any bag, any bin” philosophy and reminds dog owners that they are legally obliged to clean up after their pets if they go to the toilet in public places, whether on the street, in an open green space in a housing estate or in a park.
Failure to do so may result in the offender being issued with an on-the-spot fine of €150 or, on summary conviction, to a fine of up to €3,000, under the 1997 Litter Pollution Act.
Members of the public are also reminded that if you see someone allowing a dog to foul in a public place without cleaning up after them, they can call the Laois Litter Hotline, in confidence, on 1800 32 32 30.
