A community employment scheme in south Donegal has warned that it may be forced to stop cutting grass in certain areas due to persistent dog fouling.
Dog owners in Killybegs and Dunkineely are being urged to clean up after their dogs.
A social media post from Killybegs Employment Project Ltd highlighted the issue.
The scheme said dog waste left in areas being cut by strimmers can be sprayed onto workers – even when they are wearing protective equipment.
The project warned that if the problem continues and dog owners fail to clean up after their pets, it may have “no other option but to stop cutting in these areas.”
Pleading for people to help keep the areas neat and tidy, they added that they are aware of the identity of some culprits and vowed to “name and hame them” if it continues.
Independent Donegal County Councillor Niamh Kennedy, who is chairperson of the Killybegs Community Employment Scheme – which covered an area between Killybegs and Ardaghy – said these workers provide a vital service.
“The lads do fantastic work throughout the parishes, between greens, housing estates, roadsides and other areas,” Councillor Kennedy told Donegal Daily.
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“Only for them, I don’t know what we would do. They are taken for granted at times.
“Most people just expect nice trimmed estates and greens, but if the men are to stand down because of irresponsible dog owners, this will be an absolute disgrace.
“The threat is very real. Our workers must be protected and health and safety is paramount.”