Urgent Health Alerts in Kilkenny: No Fines for Dog Fouling in 2024

UPDATE: Alarm bells are ringing in Kilkenny as new data reveals a shocking lack of enforcement against dog fouling. In 2024, local authorities issued a mere 48 fines across the entire country, with Kilkenny recording an astonishing total of zero fines for dog fouling. This staggering statistic raises urgent health concerns for residents, especially those who are blind or visually impaired.

The findings come from Vision Ireland, a charity dedicated to supporting blind and visually impaired individuals. In stark contrast, Kilkenny issued 123 parking fines during the same period, highlighting a troubling disparity in enforcement priorities. Overall, fines decreased significantly from 82 in 2022 to just 48 in 2024, with Cork County Council leading the way with 11 fines. Many local authorities, almost half, reported issuing no fines at all.

A survey conducted by Vision Ireland, involving 281 people who are blind or vision impaired, revealed that 42% of respondents frequently encounter dog waste on public footpaths. This alarming trend has sparked serious concerns about hygiene and safety.

A spokesperson for Vision Ireland stated,

“People who are blind or vision impaired and use mobility aids are particularly at risk. Not only does dog fouling present a slipping hazard, but it can also be a major problem for white cane users whose canes are dirtied by faeces. When folded up, this poses a hygiene and health risk.”

Kevin Kelly, Head of Policy and External Affairs at Vision Ireland, emphasized the need for community action. He remarked,

“Fines alone are not the answer, and we urge the public to be more considerate of the needs of everyone who uses our shared spaces.”

As Kilkenny grapples with this issue, the focus must shift to ensuring public spaces are safe for all. Authorities are being called upon to take immediate action to address this pressing public health risk.

Residents and advocates alike are encouraged to share their thoughts and experiences to help shine a light on this critical issue. For those living in Kilkenny, the urgent call to action is clear: a collective effort is needed to keep shared spaces clean and safe for everyone.

Stay tuned for more updates on this developing story.