COMHAIRLE CONTAE ÁTHA CLIATH THEAS
SOUTH DUBLIN COUNTY COUNCIL

South Dublin County Council Crest

MEETING OF CLONDALKIN AREA COMMITTEE

Wednesday, March 21, 2018

MOTION NO.12

MOTION: Councillor B. Bonner

"That this committee would agree that the following areas would be included on the list for covert cctv surveillance for dumping blackspots. 

Watery Lane / Mayfield

Knockmeenagh Lane

Oakfield - adjacent to the Towers reception centre."

REPORT:

Any incidents of illegal dumping are investigated /examined to determine if there is any incriminating evidence, and thereafter reported to our Public Realm crew for removal.  Where sufficient evidence can be found enforcement action is taken.

The Council continuously examines options for surveillance to reduce incidents of littering/illegal dumping.  Such surveillance can include CCTV cameras.  In managing this service the Council is mindful of resources available.  Possible locations for CCTV systems are assessed on a case by case basis and having regard to criteria set out in the Litter Management Plan 2015 - 2019 i.e. where there is a demonstrated need to assist the Council in collecting evidence to assist in investigation of indiscriminate and persistent littering/dumping.

Generally the Council uses overt CCTV, the use of covert CCTV is limited and in accordance with the Council's CCTV Code of Practice, must be authorised by the Chief for a limited period of time.   Similarly, it is not usual for Council CCTV to be provided in private grounds, unless for example there is a problematic Council recycling facility located on such grounds. 

To date in 2018 (up to the 28th February), the Enforcement and Licensing Section received:

All dumped material was investigated and evidence was found in one case at Knockmeenagh Lane which resulted in one fine being issued.

It is, as always, proving extremely difficult to obtain evidence in relation to the identity of offenders and where there is an ongoing problem of illegal dumping in any area, local residents are urged to support the Council in taking the appropriate enforcement action by making reports to the Litter Warden Service for investigation and by providing evidence, including testimony, where possible. Additionally, residents are encouraged through the medium of the Council's Social Credits Scheme to seek rewards for community based initiatives, such as community clean ups.