A chara, - On Sunday last I arranged to meet some UK visitors for a drink at the seafront in Bray. On my arrival at 8.30 p.m. I could not believe my eyes. It appeared as if a bomb of litter had exploded on the esplanade. The grass and walkways were covered in drinks cans, confectionery wrappings and all kinds of litter. I did not see the beach but I believe it was similarly littered. When I arrived, my visitors were talking about it, as were the rest of the visitors to the area, I bet. Obviously, draconian action is required. Litter wardens, Singapore style fines (as a result of which you won't see a matchstick on the streets of Singapore) and whatever else it takes.
I suggest the following: car drivers caught on police videos throwing litter from cars should be severely fined - they can easily be identified; and people seen on street security videos could be shown on TV simply as litter louts. A special little RTE TV monthly slot could be arranged so that public odium would be a deterrent, at least for some.
Needless to say, litter wardens, with whatever back up and powers are necessary, should be visible. Perhaps a few politicians should be sent to Singapore to see how they do it. - Yours, etc., Brian Murphy,
Killiney, Co Dublin.