Calls for action in Tipperary over 'silly string' nuisance at festivals and public events

Councillors from all corners of the political spectrum in Tipperary have come together to call for a ban on the sale and public use of "silly string" - a novelty item often seen at festivals and parties.

At a recent meeting of Tipperary County Council, a total of nine councillors backed a motion urging the council to write to the Department of the Environment, Climate and Communications, seeking a nationwide ban or regulation on the use of the substance in public spaces.

Commonly known as aerosol string, the colourful product is sprayed from a pressurised can and quickly solidifies into a plastic-like strand.

READ NEXT: 'Woman in Spain' to benefit from Dundrum House Hotel IPAS centre contract worth up to €20m

While it might appear harmless, councillors say it's causing growing concerns around littering, environmental harm, and public nuisance.

Councillors are now hoping that national legislation can be introduced to either ban the sale of silly string entirely or restrict its use in public areas, particularly during festivals and large gatherings.

The councillors, in their notice of motion approved on Monday, April 14, said the product is used extensively at festivals and outdoor events, particularly around St Patrick’s Day and Halloween.

They highlighted that it is often sprayed in an uncontrolled manner onto buildings, public spaces, and even directly at people.

"There are a number of concerns about the use of this product, including the cost and difficulty of clean-up as it adheres to buildings and public realm.

READ NEXT: Tipperary man killed in car crash was going to friend's house at time of accident

"It is noted that fines were issued by the US Environmental Protection Agency as the product marketed under various names potentially damaged the stratospheric ozone layer.

"Globally the use of aerosol string products have been banned in a number of places and at some public gatherings and events for various reasons, including clean-up and removal costs and fears of potential damage to houses or vehicle paint.

"There are also health and safety concerns as the uncontrolled use of the product on festive occasions causes risk particularly of eye injuries," the motion added.

The motion was tabled by Cllrs Fiona Bonfield and Louise Morgan Walsh (Labour) and supported by a cross-party group of councillors including Dr Phyll Bugler (Fine Gael), Séamus Morris (Independent), JP O’Meara (Fianna Fáil), Joe Hannigan (Independent), John Carroll (Fianna Fáil), Michael O’Meara (Independent) and Pamela Quirke O’Meara (Independent).

In response, the council confirmed that, "subject to council approval, this motion will be referred to the Department of the Environment, Climate and Communications for comment".