Sir, - The Irish Wildlife Trust would like to register its concern at the ongoing problem of litter in the River Dodder. The number of letters to your newspaper is testament to the fact that a great number of people share our sentiments. But this is not a letter calling for the authorities to take action. They are aware of the source and scale of the problem, yet the problem remains. Rather, this is a call to action to all those people who enjoy the River Dodder on a daily basis. It is we who must take responsibility for the welfare of this river in our own hands.
To this end the Irish Wildlife Trust intends to hold a Dodder Day of Action on the last Sunday in June. We are looking for volunteers, young and old, to support us in this endeavour. On this day we will clean up the litter along as much of the river in the city as numbers will allow. Once the litter is gathered up, we will consider dumping 50 per cent of it on the doorstep of the HQ of Dublin Corporation and the other 50 per cent at Dublin County Council HQ. This will remind them that, though we the people have decided to take matters into our own hands, they cannot abdicate their responsibility for ensuring that a long-term solution is put in place to prevent littering of the river occurring on such a scale again.
So, come on everybody, we've had "people in need" - let's hear it for river in need! - Yours, etc., Dr. Rory P. O'Hanlon,
Irish Wildlife Trust, Lower Baggot Street, Dublin 2.