Councillor Richmond’s motion stated;

That the Manager put in place an action plan for tackling graffiti in the County and examines ways of working with community groups and residents’ associations in this regard.

Speaking about the issue, Councillor Richmond said, “It is regrettable that central government has closed the funding programme for graffiti removal. This was compounded by the water pressure crisis which meant graffiti removal was halted for many weeks.

“The programme for graffiti removal was of major assistance to local authorities in ensuring graffiti was removed from public signs, public buildings and other areas.

“However, as a community I believe there is a lot that can be done if we work together. Many residents’ associations have already adopted a proactive approach to graffiti removal from walls, laneways and street signs.

“What now needs to be done is that the Council needs to pull together all the various stakeholders – community groups, the local authority, residents’ associations and local businesses – with a view to putting in place a proactive plan for the removal of graffiti from public signs, walkways, shop fronts, etc.”