Speaking on the issue Carla Lockhart said, “this is an insult to rate payers who have adhered to the law and not engaged in fly tipping, which will be collected by Council staff. Over the past 7 weeks residents, our rate payers have been disadvantaged. They have not received the service for which they pay considerable rates. Many, while angry, have adhered to the rules around retaining their rubbish and not engaging in dumping it like others. Council to date have avoided and refused to collect bags despite other Council areas doing just that following their strike action. This is just not acceptable with residents, particularly the elderly, unable to get their black bags to the local amenity sites. As a goodwill gesture bags should be lifted which in turn would reduce the fly tipping in the long run and an infestation of vermin around houses. I know that workers are keen to assist in this regard but need approval from management. 

I have been working with my DUP Council colleagues in pressing for a change in policy. Additionally I have asked for a rate rebate / one of payment to be made to residents to ease the burden that many have had seeking alternative waste disposal services.”