Council bid to eliminate ongoing illegal activities at Clonburris lands in Clondalkin
By Maurice Garvey
SOUTH Dublin County Council is currently making arrangements to have the Clonburris lands monitored, in an effort to prosecute people responsible for “ongoing illegal activity.”
Since the start of the year, 86 burnt-out cars and 26 horses have been removed from the Clonburris fields.
The 280 hectares – mostly privately owned and zoned for housing – have become a mecca for joyriding, animal cruelty, and illegal dumping.
Numerous requests to tackle serious anti-social problems in the area have been made to the local authority by representatives.
On August 3, a site investigation was carried out by officials from SDCC and gardai.
A spokesperson for SDCC told The Echo: “In conjunction with An Garda Síochána, 28 burnt-out cars were removed from the area.
“Seventeen horses were located at the Clonburris Lands, two horses were removed on Thursday, and further investigation and removal is ongoing regarding the remainder of the horses.”
“In June 2017, following similar activity in the area all boundaries were secured and fencing was erected by the SDCC property management section to permanently secure access areas.
“However further unauthorised access was made off the roundabout on the Fonthill Road, barriers were removed and palisade fencing was mechanically pulled out of the ground.
“Following the site investigation, access points have been temporarily secured and the SDCC are examining permanent methods of securing the land.”
Independent councillor Francis Timmons said contractors will be brought in to round up the remaining horses.
“Hopefully, the ones in need can get medical attention,” said Cllr Timmons.
“All the issues will be discussed at the Environment SPC in September which I am a member of. I look forward to working with SDCC and others in finding permanent solutions to eradicate animal cruelty in our area.’’
Last year, SDCC seized 266 horses, of which 250 were put down.
Two years ago, 469 horses were seized and 435 euthanised.
Few of the horses seized are microchipped – as required by law – and owners cannot be identified.
Cllr Timmons said a meeting is planned in late August/early September between SDCC, Dublin City Council and “interested parties” to agree terms of reference for a working group which will address “responsible horse ownership and animal welfare.”
