Cameras not enough to deter illegal dumping in Waterford says councillor
Cameras are being installed across the county to detect and deter illegal dumping
West Waterford councillor Donnchadh Mulcahy has welcomed the rollout of cameras to detect and deter illegal dumping.
But he said technology alone is not a solution to the problem.
“This is a strong move in the right direction and it shows that the issue is being taken seriously.
"However, we will never have enough cameras or enforcement officers to cover every road, field or scenic area.
“That’s why community involvement remains absolutely vital,” said Cllr Mulcahy.
Cllr Mulcahy said reporting is really important for building an evidence-based case for cameras.
If reports are not made, then there is no record and so an area in need may not be considered a priority.
“Too often, communities step in and clean up these messes themselves, which is commendable, but if incidents aren’t logged, it weakens the case for further resources and CCTV in those areas.
“Every report helps build evidence and ensures the worst-affected locations are prioritised when future CCTV placements and enforcement decisions are being made,” said Cllr Mulcahy.
All reports to the council about illegal dumping, littering and flytipping are handled confidentially.
“This is about all of us pulling together, residents, community groups and the council, to protect our towns, villages and countryside. Illegal dumping damages the environment, harms tourism and places an unfair cost on the wider community,” said Cllr Mulcahy.
