Hidden cameras to monitor illegal dumping hotspots

Hidden CCTV cameras will continue to be used at illegal dumping hotspots in Co Kerry this year.

However, people who dump in locations not covered by cameras are reportedly “getting astute” and most no longer leave clues to their identity, according to Kerry County Council.

When litter wardens follow up on reports of rubbish being dropped off on roadsides and ditches, they go through the waste item by item, hoping to find some document that might lead them to the culprits.

“In the past, they might find an envelope, or a bill, containing an address, but that rarely happens now as people who dump illegally are more savvy,” said council communications executive Pádraig Corkery.

Even well-known scenic areas, including Killarney National Park and the Dingle Peninsula have become dumping grounds, despite pleas from county manager Tom Curran who stressed the importance of the tourism industry.

The number of cases of illegal dumping probed by the council has dropped by over a third since 2010. The council employs two full-time litter wardens.

In 2012, 60 on-the-spot fines were issued; 26 were paid, six led to prosecutions, and there were two convictions. In 2011, some 132 fines were issued.

About €93,000 has been allocated to the council’s litter warden service for 2013 and €39,000 is to be spent on litter control. Over €943,000 will be spent on street cleaning.