Awareness Campaign Against Bogus Waste Collectors in Wicklow
Wicklow County Council has launched a public awareness campaign to alert residents about the dangers of dealing with unauthorised waste collectors. The local authority has issued warnings following reports of individuals advertising refuse and bulky waste collection services on social media and even visiting homes door to door.
The council is urging Garden County residents to remain vigilant and avoid using so-called “bogus waste collectors,” as doing so could result in serious consequences, including fines of up to €5,000. Homeowners who allow illegal waste collection services to take their refuse may find themselves facing penalties if the waste ends up being dumped improperly.
A spokesperson for Wicklow County Council emphasized the importance of verifying the legitimacy of any waste collector before agreeing to their services. “If you come across an advertisement for a refuse or bulky waste collection service on social media, we recommend that you ask for their permit number,” the spokesperson said.
All authorised waste collectors are required to hold a valid Waste Collection Permit, which must be clearly displayed on their vehicle. This is a crucial step in ensuring that the service is legal and properly regulated. However, some unauthorised collectors may offer receipts as proof of service, but it is important to note that a receipt is not equivalent to a Waste Collection Permit.
Residents are advised to be cautious and not fall for these scams. The council has highlighted that the consequences of engaging with illegal waste collectors can be severe, both in terms of financial penalties and environmental harm.
How to Verify a Waste Collector’s Legitimacy
To ensure that a waste collector is licensed and authorised, residents can check the details on the official website of the National Waste Collection Permit Office (nwcpo.ie). This resource provides a list of all registered waste collection services, making it easier for residents to confirm the legitimacy of any company they are considering.
In addition to checking permits, residents should also be aware of other red flags that may indicate an illegal operation. These include:
- No visible permit on the vehicle
- Lack of clear contact information or business details
- Unusual payment methods or pressure to act quickly
- Offering services at unusually low prices
Reporting Littering and Illegal Waste Activities
If residents encounter littering or suspect that an illegal waste collector is operating in their area, they are encouraged to report it immediately. A dedicated hotline has been set up for this purpose, and residents can call 0404 20127 to report any such incidents.
This initiative by Wicklow County Council is part of a broader effort to protect the environment and ensure that waste is managed responsibly. By raising awareness and providing clear guidelines, the council hopes to reduce the risk of residents falling victim to fraudulent waste collection services.
Staying Informed
For those looking to stay updated on local news and developments, there are regular updates available through various channels. Morning headlines are typically covered at 7:30am, and there are exclusive insights from Fionnán Sheahan every afternoon. Residents can also sign up for a free daily newsletter to receive the latest news directly in their inbox.
