COUNCILLORS in Carmarthenshire are to help clampdown on litter louts and dirty dog owners.
Workshops explaining the role of the council’s environmental enforcement section have been held for members.
It included a presentation from Executive Board Member for Environmental and Public Protection Cllr Jim Jones and Director of Technical Services Richard Workman as well as a video showing the type of incidents enforcement officers have to deal with and the abuse they receive on a daily basis whilst doing their job.
The council’s environmental enforcement section employs two area environmental officers, 10 enforcement officers, and three admin staff.
They deal with all types of environmental crime including litter, dog fouling, fly-tipping, fly-posting, graffiti, unlicensed waste carriers, abandoned and nuisance vehicles, unlicensed skips and scaffolding and domestic and trade waste offences.
They often work in partnership with a number of other agencies including Dyfed-Powys Police, the Environment Agency, DVLA, Customs and Excise, Department for Work and Pensions and the Vehicle and Operator Services Agency (VOSA).
Last year 347 fixed penalty notices were issued for litter and dog fouling offences and 93 people were prosecuted in court.
Cllr Jones said: “Dog fouling and litter are a top priority. We live in a beautiful county with lovely beaches, countryside and historical towns that attract thousands of visitors each year.
“Litter is not only unsightly but it pollutes our rivers and is harmful to wildlife. Dog mess on the other hand poses a serious health hazard.
“We want to keep our county clean and will not tolerate anyone littering or not cleaning up after their dog. We will not hesitate in taking action by fining them. “
Members are being asked to work closely with officers by providing them with information on problems in their areas so that action can be taken.
Cllr Jones added: “Carmarthenshire is a very large county to cover but it’s all about being in the right place at the right time. That can be very difficult as they cannot be everywhere at once. This is why we need the help of fellow councillors and the public to help us catch those responsible.”
To report dog fouling or litter offences please call Carmarthenshire Direct on 01267 234567 or complete the online report forms at www.carmarthenshire.gov.uk
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