Beachgoers urged to take responsibility for litter

AHEAD of what is expected to be a busy weekend at Clare’s beaches, Clare County Council is urging visitors to “Respect the Banner” by keeping Clare and its beaches litter-free.

Clare has been one of the hottest spots in Ireland this week with temperatures regularly hitting 26-28c, which has resulted in a significant increase in the numbers of visitors to popular seaside resorts such as Lahinch and Kilkee.

Joan Tarmey, Environmental Awareness Officer commented, “We have incredible beaches stretching along our coastline that is the envy the world over.  With these incredible assets comes a responsibility to look after and respect them.  The council is calling on people to ‘Respect the Banner’ by keeping it litter free.

“The council wants to acknowledge the vast majority of diligent people visiting our beaches who ensure all empty packaging or picnic waste is taken home or alternatively deposited in the public bins provided. But we are taking this opportunity to remind people to continue this good practice. However, there are a minority who litter or dump indiscriminately at these beautiful locations”.

Ms Tarmey said tourism is hugely important in County Clare, and every effort whould be made to ensure Clare is kept clean for both locals and visitors.

“Bins are being emptied a number of times per day by Council staff and every effort is made to ensure Clare is looking its best.  Local volunteers are also quick to help out.  However, we need everybody’s co-operation to keep Clare litter-free, ” she added.

Ms. Tarmey also urged members of the public not to deposit their household rubbish in or alongside bins at any location.  She said the practice often causes bins to overflow.

“Holiday home owners and other householders are reminded that the onus is on them to dispose of their domestic waste at either of the council’s West Clare Recycling Centres at Lisdeen and Ballyduffbeg near Inagh, or to avail of a private refuse collection service,” she concluded.