The Mayor of Waterford City and County has branded it "disgraceful" litter left by students in Waterford.
A sea of takeaway packaging was disposed of in the John Street area of Waterford City on Wednesday night. It's understood it was the first 'student night out' marking the return of the college term.
Pictures circulating on social media appear to show John Street in the city heavily littered.
Speaking to WLR News, Councillor and Mayor of Waterford Jason Murphy says it was an unfortunate sight.
"I've seen some of the photographs and I have to say it was a disgrace. This is not in any way anti-student sentiment but people need to take responsibility. So much work has gone into that. I mean I think it was back earlier on in the summer when Waterford scored extremely high in the IBAL Litter Survey. It had been one of the cleanest cities in Ireland which we're all very proud of, but to see that this morning it is an absolute mess.
"Having said that I think the businesses bear responsibility as well. I mean anyone who can see the pictures can see where they came from, and I actually believe the management of these businesses should go out in the evening and clean up this rubbish, but the primary responsibility is with the people who dumped it there."
In a statement to WLR, Waterford City and County Council said that financial sanctions are in place for businesses that do not clean up outside their premises.
"The occupier of any premises used for the sale of confectionery, food, drink or nicotine-containing products; a public market; must ensure an adequate number of litter bins are in place. The occupier will also be responsible for removing all litter within 50m. Bus and rail stations, airports or seaports; or retail shopping centres, must also ensure an adequate number of litter bins are in place.
"The occupier of any premises that is used as a licensed premises; a cinema, theatre, concert hall or leisure centre, an amusement arcade or an area for other indoor or outdoor sport or recreation; a bookmaking business; hairdressers, barbers, or beauty salon; or a third level educational institution or college must also ensure that an adequate number of cigarette bins are provided.
"There will be a fixed penalty notice of €75 issued to any persons found in contravention of the bye-laws."
Litter in Waterford City Centre
Mayor Jason Murphy continued, "Everyone accepts that they need to take responsibility but the businesses need to take action.
"I only have to think of our own cleansing teams in Waterford City and County Council who do a fantastic job coming out there early this morning to clean up all that rubbish.
"There are plenty of bins around the city, especially at that time of night they're empty."
For the latest Waterford News and Sport, tune into WLR News on the hour and download the WLR App for news on demand.
