From 1st September, litter fines are set to increase from €150 to €250 as part of the State’s Circular Economy strategy. The increase comes alongside a new €250,000 fund announced by Minister of State for the Circular Economy Alan Dillon to support local authorities in keeping public spaces clean and tackling litter.
With motorists continuing to be caught littering from vehicles, including cases where individuals have faced fines of €1,000 or more for offences such as throwing cigarette butts from cars, the increased penalties are the latest measure aimed at tackling roadside litter and encouraging people to take greater responsibility for their waste.
Following the announcement, Ian O’Reilly, Car Insurance Expert, at Chill comments:
“Cigarette butts are among the most common forms of litter found around roads and in public spaces, with tobacco product litter predicted to make up 25% to 40% of all litter globally, according to the World Health Organization. This highlights why even seemingly insignificant items of litter should not be dismissed, and why every driver has a role to play in keeping our roads and public spaces clean.
“Littering from vehicles is not only harmful to the environment, but it can also create serious road-safety risks. Items thrown from cars can obstruct roads, distract drivers and create hazards that may contribute to collisions. Waste can also enter road drainage systems, where it can accumulate and cause blockages, disruption and flooding, in turn leading to emergency repairs, road closures and additional risks for road users.
“The increase in litter fines sends a clear message that littering is not a harmless act. Drivers have a responsibility to dispose of their waste properly and to consider the potential consequences this crime can cause over time. Preventing distractions, obstructions and other avoidable hazards is an important part of responsible driving, helping to protect motorists, cyclists and pedestrians alike.
“It is also worth remembering that incidents caused by unsafe or careless behaviour on the road can carry wider financial consequences, including potential implications for a driver’s car insurance if they result in damage, injury or an insurance claim. Having appropriate cover in place provides important financial protection if an accident occurs, helping motorists manage the costs associated with damage to vehicles, third-party property or injuries. Ultimately, responsible driving is about more than avoiding fines – it is about reducing preventable risks and ensuring drivers are properly protected should something go wrong.”