COMHAIRLE CONTAE ÁTHA CLIATH THEAS
SOUTH DUBLIN COUNTY COUNCIL
MEETING OF SOUTH DUBLIN COUNTY COUNCIL
Monday, April 09, 2018
QUESTION NO.14
QUESTION: Councillor F. Timmons
To ask the Chief Executive to issue a report on Dog wardens , how many there is ? how many fines have been issued and how much the council has earned from fines? also to ask if residents associations can ask for bin you dog poo signs and to ask for a contact re this ? also to ask for the dog wardens contact details ?
REPLY:
South Dublin County Council currently employs two full time Dog Wardens
The Dog Warden's role is the enforcement of the Control of Dogs Act 1986 as amended. This includes:
- responding to complaints relating to dogs not under effectual control and/or dangerous dogs
- carrying out of Licence Checks and the initiation of enforcement proceedings where possible
- seizure and collection of unwanted/stray dogs and removal to the Dog Pound.
In 2018, one fine was issued which is currently with the Council's Law Department.
Dog fouling is an offence under Section 22 of the Litter Pollution Act, 1997, as amended. Under this Act the person in charge of the dog is subject to a fine or prosecution if he/ she does not immediately remove any faeces deposited by their dog in certain places, and/or if that person fails to ensure that their dog litter is properly disposed of in a suitable sanitary manner.
The difficulty with enforcement of this particular section of the Act is the requirement for witness testimony, to report that the offence happened and that an identified person is the person in charge of the dog. Therefore the Council continues to encourage residents groups and/or individuals to assist the Warden Service in this regard.
Signage is considered on a case by case basis and is only erected following inspection of the location and where there is demonstrable need.
Registered group(s)in existence in this area, may be provided with signage through the Social Credit Scheme with the caveat that such signage erected must have due regard for public health and safety, and must not impede visibility or restrict traffic, cycling and pedestrian flow. Similarly, if it is proposed to co-use a pole, authorisation will be required.
The Dog Wardens can be contacted on 01 414 9000.