40% of towns now 'litter free'

IRELAND'S litter problem has shown a vast improvement over the past year, according to the latest survey of towns and cities around the country.

However, blackspots remain, particularly in poorer areas, and chewing gum litter is on the increase.

The final result of the 2005 litter survey by Irish Business Against Litter shows nearly 40% of towns are now classed as 'litter free'. Less affluent urban areas continue to lag behind more prosperous ones, with Mayfield in Cork and Finglas in Dublin at the foot of the table. The cleanest town will be announced at a ceremony today in Dublin.

IBAL chairman Dr Tom Cavanagh said: "These results continue a positive trend of recent years. Despite increased consumption and urbanisation, there is no doubt that our country is becoming a cleaner place to live and work in.

"In 2002, we had just two towns achieving 'litter-free status' or 80 points. Taken as an average, we now have the top 44 towns in the country reaching that mark. It's the 13 towns graded 'seriously littered' or worse that need to be targeted."

The 2005 Anti Litter League is the largest ever litter survey in Ireland, with everywhere with a population of more than 6,000 covered. The results show number of litter-free towns doubled from 11 to 22, while 'litter blackspots' remained at 4.

The results draw a link between cleanliness and economic prosperity, noting a contrast between affluent urban areas such as Dun Laoghaire and Terenure, and more economically neglected ones like Finglas and Mayfield in Cork.

Dr Cavanagh said: "Away from the city centre and tourist traffic, these urban areas understandably don't receive the same attention or investment from local authorities. This is reflected in their showing in the Litter League."

IBAL will monitor these areas in future surveys.

Chewing gum was once again a major source of litter, and present in 36% of sites - an increase on the previous study.