It’s a constant annoyance for city dwellers.

Yet not one dog fouling fine has been issued by Cork City Council since 2022, when a single fine went out in the post.

“Not one fine in 2024 to date.” said Labour Party Candidate for Cork City South East Ward Peter Horgan, who has received confirmation from Cork City Council on the figures.

Only one such fine was issued in 2022, two in 2021, and none in 2020 or 2019.

“None in 2023, yet knocking on doors, it is an issue that is regularly raised. One needs to only walk around to see the impact in our city and walking areas,” said Mr Horgan.

“The mind continues to boggle at the seemingly disinterested approach to tackle dog fouling in City Hall. This will only be resolved through a change in approach by a new byelaw and proactive method of tackling the issue.

“The fact that the current bye-law is so restrictive, and acknowledged by Council management, yet remains unchanged either at local or national level, shows the level of political will attached to this matter.

‘They know they will not be pursued for the fine.’

“Cobh gives out dog bags every week to dog walkers. Carrigaline has specific bins, but in the city it is a shrug-your-shoulders approach from all stakeholders.”

Mr Horgan is calling for a new ‘zero-tolerance’ byelaw: “Incentivise operations to happen early morning and late night and show that fines are coming and will be pursued.” he said.

“The nature of those who do not clean up is that they know they will not be pursued for the fine. We are spending money on posters that do not have an impact. It is not five-year-olds not cleaning up after their dog, and we have to be honest on that.

“There is a level of personal responsibility and ownership but that is not getting through.”

Mr Horgan pointed out that there are no dog bins on the Blackrock Line, on the Marina, or on the new Tramore Valley link Walk in Grange.

“It’s an area that certain people want to actively forget exists but it is a public health concern.”