Recent problems of dog fouling in Larne have been raised at Council by Ulster Unionist Councillor Mark McKinty. The Deputy Mayor submitted the following motion at a recent meeting of the Environment committee:
"That this Council reviews its approach to tackling dog fouling to ensure targeted action at those areas worst affected, to include a responsive clean-up where dog fouling occurs, robust enforcement through the issue of fixed penalties, and community engagement/communication to ensure the message is loud and clear to local people that dog fouling is anti-social, dangerous and will not be tolerated."
The motion, which was seconded by Town councillor Roy Craig, was passed unanimously by those members present.
Proposing the motion, Cllr. McKinty highlighted the "epidemic" nature of the problem. "Since the beginning of 2013, I have received 16 telephone calls or online messages regarding dog fouling, in addition to 5 emails and 7 verbal reports, and I am sure other Councillors have received similad communication."
"Areas mentioned include Ballycarry (Main St, West St, park area), Ballystrudder, Glynn (Jubilee Park, entrance gate to primary school), Sallagh Park, the Factory area, Linn Rd, the Harbour area, Ballygally, the Drains Bay to Carnfunnock path, and even the Main Street" he stated. "This is a country-wide problem of slipping standards."
"I wish to recognise and thank those responsible dog owners who look after their dogs. A smal number of inconsiderate people are giving others a bad name".
"Fouling is a public health risk, especially to young children. It can also be dangerous to other dogs, causing disease and death."
"People are fed up with this blight on our communities. The message needs to go out loud and clear: allowing a dog to foul and not clean up after it is anti-social and this Council will be proactive in taking action against offenders" said Cllr. McKinty.
In his closing remarks, Cllr. McKinty paid tribute to the owners of Ballycarry's pet groomers for offering free bags and dispensers in an attempt to tackle the pronlem. "We must be seen to be taking action on this issue. Dog fouling frustrates civic pride in our Borough, and we must all work together to overcome this problem".
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