A number of projects to tackle illegal dumping in County Cork have been boosted with new investment.

Funding of €108,000 was secured under the Waste Enforcement Regional Lead Authority (WERLA) Anti-Dumping Initiative 2022 to support the 18 diverse projects.

The Bantry Bay Shoreline Cleanup is one of the community-led projects that will receive support from the fund. Founded in 2006, the initiative sees representatives of Bantry Harbour Commissioners, West Cork Development Partnership, local fishermen and other users of the Bay join together with Cork County Council each year to undertake a litter pick of the coastline. This year's clean-up saw over 25 bags of marine litter, plus larger debris retrieved from the shores of Bantry Bay. 

Mayor of the County of Cork, Cllr Danny Collins said: "Cork County Council works best in collaboration with the community and groups such as the Bantry Bay Shoreline Cleanup provide an invaluable contribution in their local area. I welcome the recent announcement of 18 anti-dumping projects in County Cork, which will give the Council and local groups the necessary support to work together to improve their town or village."

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In Bandon, Cork County Council will utilise the fund to clear an area of waste ground that has been the site of ongoing illegal dumping, to develop a new 400m long walkway, clearing over 15 tonnes of material and exposing the distinctive Old Chapel Railway Bridge. 

Chief Executive of Cork County Council, Tim Lucey added: "Cork County Council received over 1,500 reports of unauthorised waste activity last year, relating to issues such as littering, fly-tipping and backyard burning. Illegal dumping is first and foremost a matter of individual responsibility and compliance with the law. It is important to remember that anyone collecting waste needs to have a permit. Bogus collectors advertise to collect household waste for a reduced cost and our Litter Wardens and Waste Enforcement Officers often find it dumped illegally. Council staff work hard year-round to maintain our wonderful outdoor amenities, but we must each play our part in protecting our countryside."

Littering or illegal dumping is subject to an on the spot fine of €150, with a fine of up to €4,000 on conviction.