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In the past five years, dog owners in Northern Ireland have been fined over £50,000 for failing to clean up their pet’s waste, as per records acquired by BBC News NI. Across the eleven councils in the region, nearly 1,000 incidents related to dog fouling were documented from 2020 to 2024. A total of £2,715 in fines were imposed on twenty individuals who were taken to court for not paying penalties issued by councils during this timeframe. Furthermore, an excess of 14,000 complaints regarding dog fouling were received by councils in Northern Ireland over the same period.
One possible solution being considered by Mid Ulster District Council to combat the issue of dog fouling is the establishment of a dog DNA database. This system could potentially link instances of dog waste to specific dogs and their owners. Confronted with the disturbing reality of dog excrement on his father’s grave in Cookstown, Ulster Unionist councillor Trevor Wilson expressed disappointment and emphasized the recurring nature of the problem in cemeteries and public spaces due to a minority of inconsiderate dog owners. Wilson commended the efforts of cemetery staff in promptly addressing the issue and called for greater accountability among dog owners.
Sinn Féin councillor Dominic Molloy initiated discussions about the implementation of a DNA database in Mid Ulster Council, proposing collaboration with other local authorities to ensure a comprehensive and cost-effective approach throughout Northern Ireland. Molloy emphasized the importance of protecting public health, particularly children’s well-being, from the risks associated with dog faeces. Dog fouling poses severe health hazards, as humans can contract toxocariasis from such waste, which is potentially fatal and can lead to blindness. It is essential for dog owners to understand these risks and maintain responsible pet ownership to preserve the cleanliness and safety of communal spaces.
Reflecting on the significant enforcement actions taken by councils in response to dog fouling, Eric Randall, the chief executive of environmental charity Keep Northern Ireland Beautiful, underscored the urgent need to address the issue through both enforcement measures and educational initiatives. With councils in the region having pursued 971 dog fouling cases from 2020 to 2024, Ards and North Down Borough Council reported the highest number and reiterated their commitment to promoting responsible dog ownership. Likewise, Derry and Strabane council emphasized that fixed penalty notices are issued only when supported by sufficient evidence, demonstrating a multifaceted approach to combating dog fouling
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