Fine the litter louts

Littering in Malta is a real headache. No amount of dos and don'ts seems to bother those whose habit is to get rid immediately of any garbage - be it large or small - anywhere convenient for them but not near their door.

A typical dumping site is created every day even a couple of hours after collection time in Ponsomby/Anglu Gatt Street corner in Mosta where there are those who find it very convenient getting rid of all their rubbish (even a torn mattress as was noticed there on August 27).

Recently, residents of the area were notified by a local councillor to keep their garbage bag near their door and stop creating rubbish dumps. Unfortunately, this fell on deaf ears as the garbage usually deposited in the corner mentioned was in evidence again every following day.

It seems that certain people persist in their bad habits and enjoy ignoring all warnings, until they are caught and fined.

Like others, this particular corner has become a favourite with stray dogs, which are seen rummaging and breaking bags, leaving a mess behind.

A second notice with a mention of "a stiffer fine if caught" might be a deterrent, until a way is found to catch culprits. I suggest also, that in the notice there will also be a reminder to dog owners to leave pavements clean of dog litter.