Long calls for urgent action on fly posting

10.25.00am BST (GMT +0100) Fri 4th Apr 2008

East Belfast Alliance MLA and Deputy Leader Naomi Long

East Belfast Alliance MLA and Party Deputy Leader Naomi Long has called for the Executive to act urgently to tackle the problem of fly posting. Her call comes following receipt of a response to a written question by Cllr. Long from the Environment Minister Arlene Foster, which stated that the Department of Environment is considering introducing stronger and more effective laws in future.

Cllr. Long said, "Whilst I welcome the recognition by the Minister in her response to my question that fly posting is a significant problem and that more needs to be done to deal with it, I would urge her to act quickly to tackle the matter which undoubtedly damages the appearance of public spaces across Northern Ireland, and especially in Belfast.

"Local people have contacted me expressing their frustration at how little can be done by local Councils here to tackle the problem. It's time that stronger legislation was introduced.

"In 2005, the Clean Neighbourhoods and Environment Act was introduced in England, which lets local authorities prosecute those involved in this activity. I would like to see similar measures introduced here as soon as possible.

"As well as being unsightly, fly posting adds to the litter problem and is linked to anti-social behaviour. It is vital that any deficiencies in existing legislation are dealt with."

ENDS