If you are looking for an Application form or Council Document you will find them in the All Publications section of this website or alternatively if you are looking for an Environment document or Applications form you can find in Environment Documents & Forms section of this website

Litter, as everybody knows, is a serious problem in Ireland. Carlow is no exception to this, and as a result, action is continuously being undertaken by Carlow Local Authorities, in the form of enforcement of litter pollution legislation and the creation of greater environmental awareness as a means to reduce the litter problem.

Litter Management Plan

In 2010 Carlow Local Authorities published a new Litter Management Plan in accordance with Section 10 ( 2 ) of the Litter Pollution Act 1997. The Plan aims to build on the experiences and successes of previous plans.

For hard copies please contact Fionnghuala Ryan, Environmental Awareness Officer on 9136240 or Email [email protected].

Dog Dirt

The Litter Pollution Acts 1997 – 2003 require dog owners to clean-up after their pets foul in public places such as public roads, footpaths, parks and beaches. An on the spot fine can be imposed on the owner of a dog who fouls in a public place, which, if not paid could, lead to prosecution and a much larger penalty.

Dog dirt can cause disease. Toxocara is a common worm found in dogs. Infective stages of this worm can be found in dog faeces. Public parks, public pathways and beaches are high risk areas.

Toxocara can also infect humans, mainly causing illness in young children. The infection can last between six and twenty four months. Infection can cause damage to the liver, lungs and eyes, sometimes leading to blindness. Dog owners cause a health risk to others by not removing dog faeces from public places and disposing if it in a proper manner. The worm eggs can only infect humans if swallowed. Children are at risk of infection when they handle dogs or handle toys, footballs, soles of shoes or buggy wheels which have been contaminated with dog faeces.

Do not let your dog foul in a public place, but if it does foul in a public place, you are required to collect and dispose of the faeces in a suitable sanitary manner, so that the public is protected from this nuisance. It is as easy as taking a bag with you every time you walk your dog in a public place. Simply place the bag over the faeces and lift it whilst pulling the bag downwards with your other hand. Tie a knot in the bag and dispose of it in a litter bin or take it home for disposal. Wash your hands when you arrive home. Alternatively, Pooper Scoopers are available free of charge from Kilkenny, South Tipperary, Waterford and Wexford County Councils.

Remember Scoop the Poop

1. Worm your dog routinely ( every three months is advised ).
2. Wash your hands after handling your dog.
3. Ensure your children wash their hands thoroughly following play outside and before eating.

Explanatory Leaflets

This information and leaflet is prepared by the South East Zoonoses Committee, ( including the Health Services Executive, The Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food, the City Council of Waterford and the County Councils of Carlow, Wexford, Kilkenny, Waterford and South Tipperary ).