An issue which has been a hobby horse of Councillor Ryan's for some time, the dog fouling crux is being experienced in practically every town and village of the county, with particular black spots emerging in various locations. And, Councillor Ryan feels that the local authorities have to take a lead in a bid to eradicate the problem by using signage and making the scoops available to o wners, who are responsible for their dogs actions.

" I have been contacted by a lot of people who cannot understand why dog owners do not clean up after their dogs have fouled on a footpath. Some of the footpaths in Thurles are been destroyed by dog foul and people are bringing this into their homes after walking on it by mistake. It is absolutely disgusting and very unhygienic and until such time as people start taking responsibility for cleaning up after their dogs this problem is only going to get worse.

Full story in this week's Tipperary Star.