Tuesday 27 March 2012
Environment Department response to media enquiry from the Guernsey Press.
Enquiry:
I was hoping to find out some more about the new dog mess signs which have been going up.
Can I find out how many signs have been put up and their locations?
Why are they being put up and why these places?
Also, why was the slightly unusual image chosen?
Lastly, how big a problem is dog mess in the island and what is the penalty for not clearing up after your canine? Is it hoped that more people will be prosecuted for not picking up their mess, so this will hopefully deter future litterers?
Response:
The Environmental Services Unit has recently increased monitoring at coastal sites which are popular with dog walkers and talking to dog owners. Eight temporary signs were placed in areas where there was evidence that some owners were not picking up after their pets. The areas where temporary signs have been placed include Portelet, Pleinmont, Jerbourg, Petit Port, and Les Banques. These signs will be moved to other areas after a few weeks.
The picture on the sign was chosen because it is an unusual image and dog walkers have commented that it is effective in catching people's attention. All the dog owners spoken to by the Environmental Services Unit have welcomed the new signs. Several owners expressed irritation that whilst the majority do pick up after their pets a small minority are causing a problem which is entirely avoidable.
There are also additional temporary easels at Fort Doyle, East L'Ancresse and Fort Pezeries with a different message which highlights the fine for not removing dog fouling. Under The Control of Dogs Ordinance (1992) a Level 2 fine (up to a maximum of £1,000) may be imposed for not removing dog fouling from a public place. As well as public roads and pavements these include all beaches, nature reserves, cliff paths, coastal headlands and grass lands, parks, and plantations.
The Environmental Services Unit will continue to monitor coastal areas and are vigilant whilst observing dogs being exercised. The Environment Department will press for any owner not picking up dog fouling to be prosecuted wherever there is sufficient evidence to support a case being taken to Court.
Contact Information:
Environmental Services Unit
Environment Department
Tel: 717200
