Illegal dumping at Annagry recycling bins sparks anger

Rubbish left discarded at a bottle bank in Annagry.

DONEGAL County Council has said recycle banks are scrutinised regularly in a bid to monitor illegal dumping at sites.

The move comes in response to the emergence of wrongful dumping incidents at two sites in Gaeltacht areas.

In the latest episode, dozens of glass bottles and other types of rubbish were discarded on the grounds of the bottle bank site in Annagry, prompting much anger on social media. It came just two weeks after the recycle bank in Gaoth Dobhair was also illegally littered. Dozens of bags were left dumped at the recycle bank, many which were ripped open and their contents strewn on the ground.

CCTV cameras in the area have not been in operation since last year, however, the local authority confirmed to this newspaper that procurement is underway to deliver improvements to the site and works are expected to commence as soon as possible.

Photographs which emerged on social media of both sites scattered with waste prompting a huge backlash online.

Chair of Glenties Municipal District Council, Councillor Micheál Cholm MacGiolla Easbiug, said despite provision being made by the Council to encourage recycling throughout the county, there remains a serious problem with general rubbish being discarded at recycling banks in West Donegal.

Cllr MacGiolla Easbuig said a wider discussion is needed to reach a resolve.

Responding, a spokesperson for Donegal County Council said frequent inspections are carried out at recycle banks.

“All bottle bank sites across the county are monitored on a regular basis by the Mobile Litter Unit and the Litter Warden in the area.

“The service providers service the banks on a regular basis and provide additional servicing as required.”

Receive quality journalism wherever you are, on any device. Keep up to date from the comfort of your own home with a digital subscription.
Any time | Any place | Anywhere