185 fines issued for littering in Galway City

A total of 185 fines were issued for littering in Galway City in the first eleven months of 2019.

People caught dropping litter and allowing their dogs to foul in public can be issued with fixed penalty notices and a fine of €150.

Galway City Council has issued 185 fines between January and the start of December in 2019, resulting in a fine amount of €27,750.

Offenders have 21 days to pay a fine and those who fail to pay litter fines can be taken to the District Court where fines can be substantially increased, as well as significant costs being charged against the offender.

According to Chief Executive of Galway City Council, Brendan McGrath, in one case heard this month in court, an individual had their fine increased to €500 and also had costs awarded against them of €600 for non-payment of a litter fine.

“Littering is a serious blemish on our natural environment and can be so easily avoided. There is never an excuse for littering. Galway City Council encourage everyone to take it home if a bin is unavailable, recycle where possible and stop the illegal dumping of waste. Disposing of rubbish correctly sets an example for younger generations and will help towards a long-term solution to the problem,” said Mr McGrath.

He said Community Wardens follow up on environmental complaints received including littering and illegal dumping. “There can be a difficulty in gathering evidence, however every effort is made to identify the perpetrators,” he added.