Calls have been made for a more aggressive approach to be taken towards tackling litter in Lahinch.
It follows the publication of the latest IBAL report, which shows the North Clare tourism hotspot has slipped in the rankings of coastal areas and is now deemed ‘moderately littered’.
Mounshannon has been highlighted as one of only 8 to receive the ‘clean’ status.
Only one coastal area in Clare area has been deemed ‘Clean to European Norms’ in the latest coastal litter survey by Irish Business Against Litter.
Mountshannon Pier and Harbour has been commended for its very freshly presented and well-maintained environment, with the An Taisce report saying there was a virtual absence of litter throughout the area surveyed.
IBAL Spokesperson Conor Horgan says Mountshannon is among only 8 out of 33 areas across the country surveyed to receive the ‘clean’ designation this year.
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In last year’s survey, Lahinch had also received the top grade, however this year An Taisce noted that ‘dog fouling prevailed’, despite adequate signage.
The report also noted a heavy presence of cigarette butts in drains, as well as plastic-food packaging and an absence of visible litter bins in the car park.
A Lahinch Hotelier insists steps have been taken by the local tidy towns committee, as well as Clare County Council to curb littering.
But Michael Vaughan believes a more aggressive approach should now be taken so that those ignoring the signage and facilities provided are fined.
Doolin pier and harbour received the same grade as Lahinch, maintaining its position from last year.
An Taisce said there was a heavy cigarette butt presence in the car park with people seemingly throwing butts out of parked cars; food related items included plastic bottles, utensils and sweet wrappers, while some dog fouling and covid related litter was present.
The report went on to say there weren’t any bins, apart from beside the food stand and no opportunities for the separating or recycling of litter.
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