Councillor slams dog fouling on Offaly Greenways

A serious dog fouling problem is blighting the Offaly Greenways, according to Councillor Oliver Bryant, who raised the issue at the April meeting of Tullamore Municipal District.

Cllr Bryant said that while many dog owners are collecting their pets' waste using the provided doggy bags, the problem arises when those same bags are then dumped irresponsibly.

''The doggy bag dispensers are there. People are taking the bags, they're using them, but then they are tossing them into ditches or leaving them on the canal bank, particularly out at Digby Bridge near the car park,'' he said.

Cllr Bryant added that he had been inundated with complaints and photographs from walkers and cyclists who use the Greenways regularly. ''People are fed up. Is this an environmental issue or a waterways issue or both?'' he asked.

There is a €150 fine if someone is caught but enforcement is the issue.

In response, John Mitchell, Senior Executive Engineer for Offaly County Council, acknowledged the growing issue and committed to opening discussions with Waterways Ireland. ''I have had some discussions with Waterways Ireland regarding other issues around maintenance. I am happy to discuss it with them. I know exactly what you are saying. I'm not sure how to solve it but I will start that discussion going,'' he said.

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Dog fouling on footpaths and public areas has been a long-standing problem, and residents report it is now getting worse posing a serious risk to health, the environment and the enjoyment of these shared spaces.