Local authorities in the State are to be given new powers to tackle illegal dumping using CCTV, drones, and number plate recognition technology.
This new legislation, which was debated in the Seanad last week and unanimously passed, will, when enacted, give councils the power to use technology to detect and prosecute those identified as breaking the law.
The legislation has been welcomed by the Independent councillor for Galway City East, Noel Larkin, who said the inability to use CCTV to pursue the dumpers has been a hindrance to tackling this issue.
“Since my election in 2014, I have been approached by numerous constituents, utterly frustrated and angry, about the scourge of illegal and unsightly dumping,” he said. “This Bill will provide the necessary framework so that technology can be used in the fight against illegal dumping. It is a vital piece of legislation which was urgently needed.”
