Council to launch dog fouling awareness campaign

Derry City and Strabane Council will launch awareness campaigns to highlight the issues dog fouling can cause.

The motion, brought by Councillor Lilian Barr at the reconvened Full Council meeting on 23 November.

The campaigns will 'serve to educate' residents about the 'detrimental consequences of dog fouling', responsible dog ownership including licensing, proper waste disposal and promote micro-chipping and improve animal welfare.

Cllr L Barr said the issue is important to voters.

“Dog fouling is one of the top local concerns of people in our community and it came up again and again on the doorstep during the recent local election campaign,” the SDLP councillor said.

“Since then I have been flooded by calls, emails and even some disturbing images sent to me as evidence to show just how big of a problem this has become and how much the streets of our city are being marred by dog waste.

“People are rightfully frustrated by this and we know that the rates burden has taken its toll on people over the last couple of years. I understand why people are giving politicians very clear instructions to get the basics right.”

She said most dog owners are responsible with their animals by a small minority 'who do not seem to have a care for their community'.

The motion also said Council would engage with Dog Trust NI or similar local organisations to initiate the 'comprehensive action plan'.

Along with Dog Trust NI's Walk this Way campaign, Council committed to seeking external funding for the implementation of the We Are Watching You anti-dog fouling campaign.

The motion pointed to the success of the latter campaign in Portsmouth, Manchester, and other residential areas where dog fouling is a significant issue. The motion said the campaign reduced fouling by up to 75% in some cities.

Alderman Chelsea Cooke supported the motion and said the issue 'needs no explanation’.

“Dog fouling is an issue across our whole council area. The serious effects of on street cleanliness, hygiene and the potential risks associated with coming into contact with dog fouling needs no explanation.” the DUP alderman said.

She said the DUP has been actively requesting new dog fouling bins across all wards, adding that education and fines are the key to combating the problem.

Councillor Shaun Harkin said he believes previous awareness campaigns have had a positive impact.

“Dog fouling is a persistent problem. I feel like we've passed one or two motions a year about it here in the chamber. I think that reflects the seriousness of the issue,” the people before profit councillor said.

“I think awareness is key. Obviously there's the issue of cleanliness and then the danger that god fouling poses to children in particular that we've highlighted in the past.

“I feel like when we've done the awareness campaigns that's made a difference and that's why the issue of Council's capacity to do it is key and capacity needs funding.

He said he supports the call for external funding in the proposal but more funding from Stormont and less cuts from the Secretary of State would enhance Council's ability to fund these campaigns.

The motion passed unanimously.