Wicklow County Council Reminds Election Candidates to Remove Posters
General Election 2024 brought a flurry of activity to Wicklow, with candidates vying for votes and plastering the county with election posters. While many have been diligent in taking down their posters, some still linger around the area, prompting Wicklow County Council to issue a reminder.
The council has taken to social media to notify election candidates that all remaining posters must be removed by Friday, December 6th, to avoid facing fines under the Litter Pollution Act. Posters left up after seven days post-election will incur a penalty of €150 per poster.
Regulations have become stricter in recent years, with guidelines on where posters can be placed and prohibitions on certain locations. It is crucial for candidates to adhere to these rules to maintain the cleanliness and aesthetics of the county.
Full Review
General Election 2024 was a busy period for candidates and their teams all across Ireland, and the sheer volume of election posters found strapped to street lamps throughout Wicklow was a clear indicator of the very hard work at hand. And while many candidates have since removed their posters, locals have noted that there are still some lingering around the county six days after polling day.
Wicklow County Council have taken to social media to remind election candidates to remove their remaining posters, including cable ties, by midnight on Friday the 6th of December or face a hefty fine. Posters found still in place after seven days following the election will be subject to the Litter Pollution Act, which will incur a fine of €150 per poster.
Election material still found on billboards, however, will not be subject to the Litter Pollution Act as they constitute commercial advertising and not election postering. Regulations regarding election postering have become more strict in recent years, with certain laws prohibiting the placement of posters within 50 meters of a polling station and guidelines that include the correct height at which a poster should be placed.
Other guidelines prohibit candidates from placing election posters on electricity poles, traffic lights, overpasses, roadside barriers, or pedestrian bridges.
Conclusion
It is essential for election candidates to adhere to the regulations set forth by Wicklow County Council to maintain the cleanliness and visual appeal of the county. By promptly removing election posters and following guidelines on placement, candidates can contribute to a more aesthetically pleasing environment for residents and visitors alike.
FAQs
1. What is the deadline for election candidates to remove their posters in Wicklow?
All remaining posters must be removed by midnight on Friday, December 6th.
2. What will happen if election posters are still found after seven days post-election?
Posters left up after seven days will be subject to a fine of €150 per poster under the Litter Pollution Act.
3. Are election posters on billboards subject to the same regulations?
No, election material on billboards is considered commercial advertising and not subject to the Litter Pollution Act.
4. What are some locations where election posters are prohibited?
Candidates are not allowed to place posters on electricity poles, traffic lights, overpasses, roadside barriers, or pedestrian bridges.
5. How have regulations regarding election postering evolved in recent years?
Regulations have become stricter, with guidelines on placement distances from polling stations and correct poster heights.
6. Can election candidates reuse posters for future campaigns?
It is advisable for candidates to create fresh posters for each campaign to comply with regulations and maintain a clean environment.
7. What should residents do if they spot election posters after the deadline?
Residents can report any remaining posters to Wicklow County Council for appropriate action.
8. Are there any exceptions to the poster removal deadline?
Exceptions may be granted on a case-by-case basis, but candidates should strive to meet the set deadline.
9. How can election candidates dispose of their posters responsibly?
Candidates should remove posters carefully, ensuring to also collect any cable ties or attachments to avoid littering.
10. What impact can the improper disposal of election posters have on the environment?
Improperly disposed posters can contribute to litter pollution, harm wildlife, and detract from the visual appeal of the county.
Tags
Wicklow County Council, Election Posters, Litter Pollution Act, Regulations, General Election 2024