A hidden CCTV camera, located at County Cavan's Kingscourt refuge centre for two weeks last month, has resulted in the council issuing over 100 on the spot fines for littering.

During the two week period the covert camera recorded over 100 people dumping rubbish at the refuge centre.

The film footage clearly shows people pulling up in their vehicles and leaving anything from full black bags to boxes to window frames on the ground around the recycling containers.

Gerry O'Rourke, Cavan County Council's Litter Management Oficer confirmed that 107 litter fines, at €150 each, were issued as a result of the footage captured on camera.

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"When we reviewed the CCTV footage," says Gerry, "We couldn't believe the number of people that just pulled up and dumped rubbish at the bring centre.

"It was like a free for all. People must realise that not only is it against the law but it also prevents those that genuinely want to recycle from doing so.

"Cleaning up after these people costs the council and the taxpayer thousands and that is why we continue to use the CCTV cameras to help catch and fine people that abuse these facilities.

"The only way to drive the message home that dumping is unacceptable is to adopt a zero tolerance approach to this issue and this is what we will be doing. Anyone failing to pay the €150 fine will be taken to court and could receive a fine of up to €3,000," added Mr O'Rourke.

Hidden cameras are used at all refuge centres in County Cavan on a 'roaming' basis and all evidence gathered is used to fine or prosecute those caught dumping or littering.

People found offending for a second time are taken to court directly.

(PR/JM)