An Armagh business that has long been plagued by repeated dog fouling on their doorstep has caught yet another offender on CCTV… but this time the owner appears to praise the pooch in the process!
The disgruntled business on Scotch Street has found themselves raising the issue of dog-fouling in the city centre on too many occasions to count.
Mess is constantly being washed from the pavement by shop staff, who are understandably tiring of having to factor this into their daily chores. Especially when it’s the duty of the dog-walker.
In a new occurrence that almost beggars belief, a dog walker can be seen on CCTV walking towards the store at approximately 1am in the morning when his dog stops, squats and… gets a pat!
Once the dog had finished its business, the man – who appears to be more interested in his phone than his responsibilities – simply walks off and leaves the faeces were it lay.
Coincidentally, workers from Armagh, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough Council had just been out the day before to spray paint “BAG IT, BIN IT” reminders on the pavement in an effort to discourage indiscriminate fouling along the high street walkways.
And, while Scotch Street displays three of these markers, it appeared to have little effect on the dog-walker in question.
When speaking with the business owners, Armagh I asked the question, “What can Council do to make a difference?”
Short of posting enforcement officers to every street corner, it was unanimously agreed that they’re effectively powerless. Essentially, it’s a “hit and hope” approach when it comes to enforcement, as officers need to catch offenders in the act for enforcement to have any impact.
But the business said they would like to see enforcement officers “follow up” with businesses who are repeatedly reporting issues.
Armagh I have contacted Council for comment.
