The illegal act of dog fouling in public places and the nuisance and dangers that it poses was placed under discussion at the monthly meeting of Gorey Town Council held in the Council Chamber.

Cllr. Lorcan Allen moved a rather long worded notice of motion;

“In view of the ever increasing amount of dog fouling of Gorey town’s pathways and Gorey to Courtown road path the following action takes immediate effect;

1. Provision of pooper scoopers in dispensers at selected locations.

2. Provision of bins for their disposal.

3. That the traffic wardens be empowered to issue summons.

4. That the dog warden make Gorey a special area to impound stray and wandering dogs.

5. That a permanent sign campaign be undertaken.”

Cllr. Allen complained that he had a number of people coming to him about the amount of dog fouling taking place. “We should make a special effort to do something about it.”

He felt that pooper scoopers should be introduced, try to enforce them and that there should be on-the-spot fines.

Cllr. Malcolm Byrne reminded the meeting that “we have raised this issue perennially” and he favoured a targeted campaign, but he said there were responsible dog owners who clean up after their dogs, but it was the ones that don’t care that should be targeted.

An Cathaoirleach, Cllr. Michael D’Arcy, agreed.

It was mentioned that residential dog owners wear high visibility vests and that dog wardens will carry refuse bags which can be given to them.

Cllr. Darren Keegan said that specific areas should be targeted and that would be where there was more volume of people.

Cllr. Robbie Ireton felt that people should be more responsible for their dogs. “If not they should be guillotined on the spot; take a photo of them on the mobile phone – the dogs and their owners – and bring them in here.”

Cllr.  Allen said that three dispensers will be of no benefit, “we need half a dozen at least,” and he asked; “Can we get two dozen signs around the town.”

Cllr. Byrne re-entered the debate and again referred to the responsible dog owners and those who were not, and he felt the irresponsible dog owners should have the dog impounded and fines issued.

“The fine should be severe,” quipped Cllr. Keegan.

Eddie Taaffe said that the community wardens cannot impound the dog. “the law doesn’t allow us to do it.”

Full story in this week’s edition of The Gorey Echo.