Madam, - Solveig Hamilton writes (December 22nd) that other countries have instigated poster campaigns and heavy fines to deter people from allowing their dogs to foul public places. We certainly have the fines, but I am not aware of the law being enforced.
While on holiday in Italy we stayed in a mid-sized seaside town with a lovely promenade. Each evening families and their children, many with dogs, would take the evening air. The path was clear of any dog-droppings and special bins were provided every 50 metres or so.
I was amazed to notice that dog owners had to pay 50 cent to use these.
In Ireland, the few bins we have are free, but hardly used.
The difference is that in Italy people have respect and due consideration for other people and actually care about the environment they live in. - Yours etc.,
DAVID QUILTY,
St Crispin's,
Greystones,
Co Wicklow.
Madam, - As an Irishman living abroad, this time of year can serve as a particular reminder of aspects of life at home that I miss. However, Solveig Hamilton's letter reminded me of one thing I don't.
I used to live beside the Phoenix Park and on most visits would count myself lucky to make it home without having trod in some dog's droppings. Where I now live owners have to pick up their pets' waste and dispose of it at their own home. As far as I'm aware there's no penalty for not doing so, but amazingly, people feel responsible enough to clean up after their pets. I have yet to see any canine debris either in the parks or on the pavements.
Until such time as Irish dog- owners behave in a similar manner their friends and neighbours may have to adopt another local custom here - that of removing one's shoes before entering their home.- Yours, etc.,
PADDY O'CONNOR,
Kanagawa,
Japan.