Dog fouling signage in Mayo looks 'too friendly'

THE friendly look of dog fouling signage needs to change.

Councillor Harry Barrett says something that is more direct is needed for those who are breaking the law.

Speaking at an environment committee meeting, he described signage featuring a cartoon dog in Castlebar as being 'too pleasant'.

He didn't like the 'friendly message' when it comes to people breaking the law and wants to see something more direct and legalistic - clean up after your dog.

Mayo County Council, similar to other local authorities, hasn't issued fines for dog littering. And the question was posed: is it practical to issue fines? How do other countries deal with the problem.

Councillor Barrett described a problem in his area in Castlebar where it had to be a 'bear' that was doing the fouling, it was so big. The erection of extra signage seems to have helped.

Ninety-nine per cent of dog owners are compliant, he stressed, but others don't get seen as they are out very early in the morning or later in the evening.

Members were told an awareness campaign is taking place around now. It will highlight how the fines that can be imposed for littering have increased.

They have sought clarification on the legalities of having a council email or WhatsApp where members of the public could send in videos or photos to report offences.

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