€2 million funding allocated for targeted crackdown on illegal dumping black spots
By Brendan Grehan
AN Anti-Illegal Dumping Initiative and an allocation of over €2 million in funding for a targeted crackdown on illegal dumping black spots across the country has been announced this week by the Department of Environment, reports Brendan Grehan
Deputy Frances Fitzgerald, TD told The Echo that applications are now open for Local Authorities and community groups to apply under the 2018 Anti-Dumping Initiative with an increased funding allocation of €2 million this year.
A recent photo given to The Echo of illegal rubbish dumping at Kiltalown Lane in Tallaght
She told The Echo: “I know the huge impact illegal dumping has on communities across Rathcoole, Palmerstown, Saggart, Newcastle, Lucan, Brittas and Clondalkin, with some particular hot-spots in these areas. Our local Tidy Towns groups, residents groups and local Council are fighting back and reclaiming our rivers, parks, laneways and country roadsides from illegal dumpers. We owe these volunteers a debt of gratitude.”
Deputy Fitzgerald said that illegal dumping poses a significant threat to jobs, income and investment in areas whose growth is dependent on the preservation and protection of their magnificent landscapes, and our clean waterways.
She added: “Covert surveillance and smart technology including aerial imagery from drones and satellites as well as the installation of CCTV cameras and better enforcement and prosecution actions will form a central part of this year’s crackdown according to the Department.”
