CCTV to be installed to target dog fouling

CCTV is to be installed in the Lecky Road area to try and catch those responsible for letting their dogs foul the streets.

Sinn Féin Councillor Patricia Logue said agreement has been reached to install the cameras after talks with the Council Dog Warden.

Despite public health campaigns around the dangers of dog fouling some irresponsible owners are still allowing their pets make a mess of the neighbourhood, she said.

“I have been involved in many initiatives over the years to try and get this issue of dog fouling in our communities addressed. This has been done through public health awareness campaigns, numerous media interviews on the issue and the installation of dog waste bins throughout the Moor ward.

“But sadly, even with all that, some people have a blatant disregard and are not cleaning up after their pets,” said Colr. Logue.

The health hazards of fouling are well-known. Toxocariasis, if contracted through infected excrement, can cause blindness.

Colr. Logue said: “It is very sad that we have had to go to the extremes of installing CCTV to try and catch those responsible for not heeding these appeals. There is not a day passes that I and other elected representatives are contacted by constituents concerned about dog fouling right outside their front doors and obvious health hazards that it brings. I would once again make another appeal for pet owners to not let their dogs stray and to pick their waste up after them.”