Maximum litter fine to rise to £100,000
The government is to increase the maximum fine for littering from £1500 to £100,000.
Environment Minister Noel Dempsey revealed the new measure as he unveiled his "Litter Action Plan" in a bid to protect Ireland's green image.
Other proposals include the doubling of the on-the-spot fine to £100 and local authorities are being encouraged to intensify their enforcement of anti-litter strategies.
Currently, it costs the State £26m to clean up litter nationwide.
