Calls for new scheme to tackle dog fouling across Limerick

LIMERICK City and County Council is being urged to follow the lead of other local authorities after a councillor claimed the city has fallen behind in tackling dog fouling.

A motion submitted by Cllr Sarah Beasley at the January meeting of the Metropolitan District of Limerick called for a 12-month pilot scheme at up to 15 locations, arguing that Limerick is lagging behind in providing basic infrastructure to tackle dog fouling.

Cllr Beasley stated: “I’ve checked multiple locations and no dog bag dispensers seem to exist. While there are many bins in some areas, although not dedicated to dog poo bins, the ability for someone to collect their dog’s waste when they don't have a bag is simply not possible. Limerick City and County Council has an any bin policy, but this assumes that the owners already have the bags on them.”

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Cllr Elisa O'Donovan seconded the motion, saying: “This is something that I fully support... I think that it is really important that we look at dog waste dispensers in Mungret Park.”

Sonja Reidy, Senior Executive Officer, Metropolitan District of Limerick Parks and Cemeteries said: “The council no longer provides pet waste bins or dedicated pet waste bag dispensers following a review of public health concerns, improper use, and cost efficiency concerns. Most dog bins have now been removed and replaced with street bins .”