Translink moves to clamp down on illegal dumping
31st October 2007:
Translink has called on the public for their help in clamping down on illegal dumping – a menace that costs the company over £250,000 a year to clean up. Five council hotspots – Belfast, Craigavon, Antrim, Lisburn and Carrick – will issue an information letter to ratepayers highlighting the issue. Pictured from left to right are: Translink Route Manager Frank Moore and Environmental Officer Andy Bate.
Translink has today called on the public for their help in clamping down on illegal dumping – a menace that costs the company over £250,000 a year to clean up.
Not only can illegal dumping cause public safety hazards but, in the worst-affected areas, neighbourhoods can potentially suffer in terms of declining house prices or discourage local investment. To this end, Translink is calling for the community to back their campaign to put a stop to illegal dumping on all NIR and Ulsterbus property.
Translink Environmental Officer Andy Bate has said that there is “no excuse” as it has never been easier for people to properly dispose of waste.
“We all want to see a cleaner, safer and more wildlife friendly environment in order for us all to enjoy our towns and countryside. Charitable organisations will happily accept unwanted goods, and many will come out to collect bulky items,” he said. “And in addition to recycling facilities, councils also provide a collection service for larger items like fridges and cookers. Ratepayers can contact their council for details on this service.
“Fly-tipping on or near railway tracks creates a very serious threat to passengers, employees and local residents in addition to the damage caused to the local environment so there really is no excuse for engaging in what is unnecessary unsafe and deeply anti-social behaviour,” he concluded.
Working closely with Tidy NI, Translink are producing information leaflets and posters highlighting the issue. The campaign has already won backing from district and borough councils. Five council hotspots – Belfast, Craigavon, Antrim, Lisburn and Carrick – will issue an information letter to ratepayers highlighting the issue.
Illegal dumping is a serious offence. Anyone caught in the act of illegal dumping can expect a minimum of a fine of up to £20,000 and/or six months imprisonment.
Incidences of illegal dumping in Northern Ireland, ranging from minor to large-scale, are on the rise. In 2004, the Environmental Heritage Service (EHS) received 1,256 complaints, and by last year that number rose to 1,436. In the four years since the EHS took the lead role in this area it has received around 4,000 reports of illegal dumping.
Translink urges anyone who feels they may have witnessed an act of illegal dumping to contact their local council immediately.
Ends
For further information contact Geoff McGimpsey at Morrow Communications on 028 9039 3837 or email g.mcgimpsey@morrowcommunications.com
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