Fianna Fail has called on people living or working in West Cork to be vigilant to any acts of illegal dumping.

TD Margaret O'Mahony also said the people who are dumping rubbish in the area should be shamed and be subjected to fines and potential imprisonment.

She said: "One only has to take a walk out many of our country roads, and you will see rubbish dumped on the side of the road causing eye sores for residents and tourists alike.

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"Too many people think that it is acceptable to dump their household waste on the side of the road in areas that are often incredibly scenic and attractive to tourists.

"It's just not on. West Cork is without doubt one of the most picturesque places on earth, let alone Ireland. It's shocking that a very small number of people would attempt to ruin the natural beauty of the area, risk jobs and damage the area's reputation.

"As well as dumping by individuals, there has been a growing trend of people pretending to be licensed waste collection providers. This needs to be stamped out as many people are being fooled into handing over large sums of money on the assumption that the waste is being dealt with appropriately."

(CD/LM)