CCTV to combat illegal dumpin

COVERT surveillance cameras are being used across Inishowen in an effort to combat illegal dumping, the “Inish Times” can reveal. CCTV cameras have been installed at known illegal dumping areas in a “pilot project” introduced by Donegal County Council. The news came to light during the recent Inishowen Electoral Area meeting in Carndonagh when Buncrana Mayor Dermot McLaughlin and Inishowen Councillor Bernard McGuiness expressed concerns over the some of the charges in place at Carndonagh’s Civic Amenity Centre. Councillor McLaughlin said although feedback had been good, some of the charges should be reviewed. “It’s quite a fine job but maybe the charges are a bit high,” he said. “A double bed is about 50 euro I think, maybe some of the charges for individual items should be reviewed.” Councillor McGuiness stated that there “seemed to be an increase in dumping on the hills here” in recent times, although he did not suggest this was linked to the charges at the amenity site. He said: “I also believe some items should be free of charge; this should be noted and acknowledged. The feedback from the public is that it’s very good, but I think the larger items should be looked at because it’s a bone of contention. “There does seem to be an increase in dumping on the hills here recently. I’m not saying that’s directly linked to this but it’s a huge issue. Sheep farmers are losing sheep as a result of this. There are a number of sites – we all know where they are – where this is a big problem. Our environment has been attacked and no-one wants to report anything.” Water and Environment Director of Services Con McLaughlin said the litter warden service in the peninsula was “very active.” “I don’t think it’s an increased problem in this area but if anyone does see or know anything then I would encourage them to report it. We will follow through on any leads we are given. Under the SPC, we are running a pilot project in this area where we have installed covert surveillance cameras and this project is still being developed.” Councillor McGuinness welcomed the news and said it was “important people know about it.” Councillor McLaughlin asked the Director of Services how many people had been prosecuted in relation to litter violations in recent times. The director of services replied that while he did not have the exact figures he assured him that they were “very good.” Councillor Marian McDonald praised Inishowen’s litter warden and stated he was “always very efficient.” Regarding the civic amenity charges, Mr McLaughlin said they were in line with charges throughout the county and he would refer it to “central policy.”