Illegal dumping came under sharp focus at this month’s Comeragh district council meeting.

Councillor Liam Brazil said Comeragh illegal dumping has increased and needs urgent action, including more CCTV in rural areas. He also criticised the lack of local “bring banks” for bulky waste disposal.

Councillor Brazil said dumping happens more in rural areas than in the city. He said residents need proper facilities and support. He argued that the council must not concentrate resources only in Waterford City.

Senior Executive Officer Dawn Wallace responded on behalf of Waterford City and County Council.

She said evidence shows more reports of illegal dumping in the city. She added that the council must target resources where issues are most frequent.

Ms Wallace said the council recorded more illegal dumping reports on one city street last year than in the entire Comeragh district.

She also addressed claims that the absence of waste collection points causes dumping. She said that if people can transport a mattress to dump it, they can drive to an authorised site in the city.

Her remarks drew strong criticism from councillors. They said the council ignores rural areas.

They argued that local community groups remove waste in Comeragh without support or recognition. They also said residents should not have to drive to the city to dispose of bulky items.

Sinn Féin councillor Catherine Burke said the council needs to treat the district fairly. She said that if Comeragh residents can travel to the city, then city residents can travel to Comeragh.

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