Dog-loving Derry councillor Shauna Cusack urges people to report 'selfish and inconsiderate' owners over dog fouling

SDLP Foyleside Councillor Shauna Cusack has called those polluting paths and greenways by failing to pick up after their pets as 'selfish and inconsiderate'.

She spoke out after the Mayor of Derry and Strabane, Colr. Michaela Boyle, said an increase in dog fouling in Derry is creating a serious public health hazard and putting extra pressure on Derry City and Strabane District Council amid the COVID-19 emergency.

Colr. Cusack said: "In these days and weeks when as a community many are pulling together to keep everyone safe and healthy there are still those who have a blatant disregard for the safety and well-being of others.

"By allowing their pets to foul and failing to pick it up they are not only disrespecting our shared spaces but putting others, especially children’s health at risk.

"No one can be ignorant at this stage to the fact this is not only morally wrong but also a serious offence subject to fines. There can be no excuse for not using the numerous bins or not having poo bags. Allowing your dog off the lead or to stray in order to self toilet in public areas is equally unacceptable."

DC&SDC does have powers to fine dog owners observed failing to clean up after their dogs. Anti-social pet-owners can be issued with an £80 fixed penalty notice.

Colr. Cusack said people should report those making a mess of public places and creating an extra work load for council workers.

"These days when we are all aware of how precious our limited time outside is for individuals and families and how important these walks are for our mental and physical health, should mean these shared spaces are treated with outmost respect and appreciation. No child or parent should have to spend most of their playtime trying to dodge the numerous mounds of foul.

"I personally will have no qualms in reporting anyone I witness disrespecting our parks or pathways and I would encourage the public to do the same. I have also asked senior officers to supply me with details of what is proactively being done by council to deal with this issue and have suggested a more aggressive approach. If, it seems we cannot change mindsets then we need stricter enforcement, accountability and penalties going forward."

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