Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 19 May 2026
300. Deputy James Geoghegan asked the Minister for Climate, Energy and the Environment if he plans to increase the maximum fine that local authorities can apply for dog fouling offences under the litter pollution Acts; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [36679/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraUnder the Litter Pollution Act, 1997, the primary responsibility for management and enforcement responses to litter pollution, including dog fouling, lies with local authorities. It is a matter for each local authority to determine the most appropriate public awareness, enforcement, and clean-up actions in relation to litter taking account of local circumstances and priorities. Persons failing to clean up after their dog has fouled may be issued with a fixed payment notice of €150 or on summary conviction to a Class B fine.
In line with commitments given in the Programme for Government, I will shortly introduce legislation to allow for an increase in the fine for littering or dog fouling from €150 to €250, effective from 1st September 2026.
This increased penalty will send a clear message that such anti-social behaviour will not be tolerated, while reinforcing the importance of civic pride and shared responsibility within communities across the country.
