As Kerry prepares to go to the polls in a little over a month, there has been a call for increased regulation of election posters to reduce the environmental impact and ensure public safety.
Mayor of Tralee, Cllr Mikey Sheehy, is advocating for stronger regulations on single-use election posters to help maintain the visual appeal of local communities.
He highlighted what her termed “the pressing need” to rethink campaign practices in a way that aligns with broader sustainability goals.
“The excessive use of single-use election posters is not only environmentally damaging but also creates an unnecessary burden on our local authorities, which are responsible for removing hazardous or misplaced posters,” said Mayor Sheehy.
“We’re in an era where voters are increasingly reachable through digital means. There are better, more sustainable ways to campaign without contributing to litter and cluttering our beautiful county,” he insisted.
Cllr Sheehy, who unsuccessfully sought the nomination to contest the general election for Fianna Fáil, said posters made of single-use plastic contribute significantly to litter, especially when not promptly removed post-election.
Increased regulation could encourage the use of reusable and eco-friendly materials, promoting sustainability in campaign practices.
He said poster often become visual clutter in public spaces with many placed at inappropriate locations can pose road safety risks by obstructing sightlines for drivers.
“Under current legislation, local authorities are responsible for removing posters that pose a risk to pedestrians or road users, adding unnecessary strain to their resources. Stricter regulation of poster placement and a reduction in single-use posters could alleviate this burden and lower associated costs,” he said.
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