Bawnogue residents ‘distraught’ over illegal dumping

Bawnogue residents in Clondalkin have voiced their complaints about illegal dumping in the community.

Local Sinn Fein councillor William Carey says he has been contacted by “distraught” residents of Leeland Estate who have been carrying out community clean-ups.

The resident’s association says the clean-ups are a way to increase awareness surrounding waste management and the local environment.

However, this work is being “undone” by an “uncaring few” who are dumping rubbish at collection points “meant to enable the community effort.

“To make matters worse some rogue builders or contractors have taken to discarding waste at the entrance to the estate and in one case blatant fly-tipping,” Carey says.

At a recent Clondalkin Area Committee meeting Carey called for signage to be erected at locations around the area to try and deter the practice.

However, the signs have not yet been installed.

“It would seem that there are some rogue individuals who think this is an easy way for them to avoid their responsibilities, but I am calling on SDCC to take prosecutions against those who are responsible for the dumping,” he said.

“I believe there is evidence available with the council, of vehicles unloading materials at these spots.

“I would urge SDCC to use this evidence to prosecute and punish those who flagrantly breaking the law and ensure that heavy fines are issued.”

Last year, it was reported that the nearby St Cuthbert’s Park in Clondalkin was becoming the site of a “dumping ground”.

In early 2022, Independent councillor Francis Timmons said “illegal dumping is ongoing at St Cuthbert’s Park.

“It’s a small minority who are doing it, who have no regard for their community.

“It’s infuriating that people are getting away with it. It’s not just litter, this is serious dumping with tables and chairs and everything.”

In 2021, South Dublin County Council said it had spent €14.7 million on cleaning up illegal dumped waste since 2012.

The council is spending on average €1.6 million a year on removing illegal dumpsites ever since domestic waste collection services were privatised.

“These figures show that the concerns that were raised about how the privatisation waste collection would lead to an increase in illegal dumping were legitimate,” said local TD Eoin Ó Broin.