Warning issued over illegal disposal of waste during Halloween period

The call comes in advance of the Halloween period, which traditionally has been used by some people to illegally dispose of waste material on bonfires.

The uncontrolled burning of waste, particularly in bonfires, is illegal and releases toxic pollutants into the air, which are known to be damaging to our health and environment. Burning of waste in this manner is illegal under the Air Pollution Act, 1987, and the Waste Management Acts, 1996-2008. Allowing unpermitted waste collectors to remove waste is an offence and could incur a fine of up to €5,000.

Bonfires are often built close to houses and other property, presenting risks to personal safety and property.

“Halloween is one the busiest times of the year for the fire services and responding to bonfire call-outs creates a strain on existing resources. I would like people to be aware of the fire safety hazards that arise from illegal bonfires, where the burning of highly combustible materials may lead to serious injuries or death,” said Adrian Kelly, Chief Fire Officer, Clare County Fire and Rescue Service.

“Unfortunately, we have experienced anti-social behaviour on a small number of occasions when attending these fires – I would appeal to people to respect the role of the firefighters in this regard and let them carry out their duty in a safe manner,” he added.

Members of the public are also advised not to buy, use or supply fireworks. Illegal fireworks may be manufactured without safety standards and can cause serious damage to users, particularly children. Parents should monitor their children and ensure they do not play with fireworks. Throughout the country, every year, children end up tragically injured and often scarred for life, after using illegal fireworks.

In the period before and during Halloween, Clare County Council and Clare County Fire and Rescue Service will be assisted by An Garda Síochána to closely monitor the situation around the county. Clare County Council’s Environmental Enforcement Team and Municipal District staff are vigilant in keeping an eye out for stockpiled bonfire material. Clare County Council endeavours to collect this waste where possible. The uncontrolled burning of waste in a bonfire is an illegal, costly and dangerous practice.

According to Maria Carey, Executive Engineer, Clare County Council, “Businesses and members of the public are requested to desist from supplying any waste material to persons who do not have a valid waste collection permit. Dealing with waste material on any other basis is an offence and can result in prosecution.

“There are significant risks arising from such bonfires, including the illegal nature of the activity, the adverse effects on the members of the local community, not to mention the negative effects on the general environment.”

If you see material such as pallets, tyres, old furniture or other combustible materials or waste being hoarded in advance of Halloween we encourage you to contact Clare County Council’s Waste Enforcement Section at enviroff@clarecoco.ie, 065-6846331 or visit www.clarecoco.ie. All reports can be treated confidentially and information such as addresses, source of waste, vehicle registrations would be of great assistance.

Page last reviewed: 17/10/23

Content managed by: Corporate Services Department

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