Leitrim among lowest in Ireland for dog fouling penalties

A survey by Vision Ireland has revealed that just 46 penalties were issued for dog fouling on public footpaths in 2023.

Leitrim was at the bottom of the list with only two offences, along with Cavan and Roscommon which had two and zero, respectively.

Kerry had the most fines for dog fouling at 13, followed by Dublin City at eight.

Vision Ireland, Ireland’s national sight loss agency, conducted a survey asking those with visual impairments about their experience with obstacles on footpaths. Over a third of those surveyed reported being impacted by dog waste on public footpaths.

The survey also found that 70 percent of respondents had been affected by parked cars on footpaths blocking their route. Over 22,000 fines were issued to motorists for parking illegally in the past year, according to data given to Vision Ireland by local authorities.

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“The number of parking fines issued alone is astounding and gives an idea of the many thousands of obstacles people who are blind and vision impaired face when they’re out and about. Fines alone will not solve these problems,”  said Kevin Kelly, Head of External Affairs at Vision Ireland.

The number of penalties for dog fouling decreased by 36 in 2022. Despite the relatively low figures, Vision Ireland expressed its support for local authorities to continue their efforts in reducing dog fouling.

“Not only does dog fouling present a slipping hazard, but it can also be a problem for white cane users whose canes are often dirtied by faeces,” Vision Ireland said.

“Parked cars and dog waste are two of the biggest hazards people who are blind and vision impaired face on our footpaths,” Mr Kelly said.

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“We must all work together and do our part to clear our paths. If everyone takes more responsibility for their actions, we can work towards making our paths safer for all.”