An update has been requested on the installation of CCTV at a number of illegal dumping blackspots in Laois.

Fine Gael Cllr Vivienne Phelan asked in a motion “that this Advice provide an update on the feasibility and practicality of installing CCTV in illegal dumping blackspots and whether CCTV could be considered for Athy Road, Stradbally, Timahoe Road, Stradbally, Portlaoise Road, Ballybrittas and surrounding areas from the Killenard bottle park.

She praised the work of litter wardens, but said there are a few black spots where CCTV would be beneficial. She said it can be frustrating for residents to continually have to report illegal dumping.

In a written response, Principal Engineer Adrian Barrett said: “The Waste Section is working to prepare the relevant documents (DPIA/SOP, Business case) which are required to enable the use of CCTV and to fully comply with the onerous requirements set. in the Code of Good Practice. They are working to obtain the necessary consents by the end of the second quarter of 2025, when locations will be selected and presented to the CCTV Oversight Board for approval.

Independent councilor Aidan Mullins seconded the motion and welcomed the code of practice. He said video surveillance would be a great deterrent.

The issue was discussed at the December meeting of the Portarlington Graiguecullen Municipal District.