The scourge of fly-tipping in Dumfries and Galloway has been highlighted on numerous occasions.
Indeed the problem has grown considerably in the local area even during the pandemic restrictions, according to local MSP Finlay Carson.
The Galloway and West Dumfries MSP has raised the matter previously at the Scottish Parliament and believes the introduction of more countryside rangers could help tackle the issue.
He is also encouraging local people to respond to a proposed bill to crackdown on indiscriminate fly-tipping, particularly at local beauty spots.
The Scottish Conservative and Unionist MSP said: “Even during the lockdown restrictions we were still faced with people illegally dumping household and building rubbish in country lanes across the region.
“Action is needed to tackle this menace and those responsible made to face the toughest penalties to try and ward off this problem.
“I know many farmers in my constituency have seen their land blighted by fly-tippers, often putting the lives of livestock at serious risk and harm. It has got to stop and I fully support any action to crackdown on it.”
His call comes after his party colleague Murdo Fraser launched his consultation on his Member’s Bill on the subject.
Mr Fraser is aiming to significantly improve on current legislation in relation to fly-tipping which dates back to 1990. His bill is being backed by organisations including NFU Scotland and Scottish Land & Estates.
The bill seeks to increase sanctions for fly-tipping, including by lifting the current fixed-penalty notice of £200, improve data collection of incidents and to guarantee the person on whose land waste is disposed on is not responsible for its removal.
He is also proposing a strict liability, which would mean the generator of the waste would be responsible for clearing it up and paying any fines.
Mr Carson wants as many people as possible to make their feelings known during the consultation period which runs until May 23.
He said: “I am pleased to be backing my colleague Murdo Fraser’s plans to crack down on fly-tipping.
“All too often fly-tipping is a scourge on our beautiful landscape and communities in Galloway and West Dumfries.
“It is completely selfish and unacceptable to dump waste at unauthorised locations. It is the public, landowners and our local authorities in Dumfries and Galloway who are left to pick up the pieces.
“This new bill is essential for strengthening current laws against fly-tipping which stretch back decades.
“I would encourage everyone in my constituency to get involved during the consultation process in the coming weeks and months and make their feelings known.
“I also hope that this sensible piece of legislation will secure cross-party backing from my fellow MSPs in the Scottish Parliament.”
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