Denis Naughten (Roscommon-South Leitrim, Independent)
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To ask the Minister for Environment, Community and Local Government the steps he has taken to date to deal with the issue of election posters on foot of his predecessor's election poster consultation; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [57588/12]

Phil Hogan (Carlow-Kilkenny, Fine Gael)
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Section 19 (7) of the Litter Pollution Act 1997, as initially enacted, provided that election and referendum posters had to be removed within 7 days following the relevant polling date. Through the Electoral Amendment (No. 2) Act 2009, following the consultation process , this provision was amended also to provide for a time limit prior to the polling date, during which election and referendum posters can be displayed. It specifies that election posters may only be erected from the date of the Polling Day Order or 30 days prior to the date of the poll, whichever is the shorter period. The time limit for referendum posters was not restricted to 30 days; such posters may be displayed from the date the Polling Day Order is signed. Any election or referenda posters in place before or after the stipulated timeframe may be subject to an on-the-spot litter fine of €150. The responsibility for enforcement of this legislation is a matter for the relevant local authority. I have no plans to introduce further legislation in this area at this time.