People who provide photographic evidence of illegal dumping could receive half of the resulting fine under a proposal advanced by Prime Minister Gaston Browne.

The Government had considered increasing the littering fine to about EC$3,000, although he was unsure during the broadcast whether the higher penalty had already been placed into law. He said he would ask the Attorney General to clarify and advance the matter.

Prime Minister Gaston Browne

Under the proposed incentive, a person who anonymously supplies a clear photograph of a truck or vehicle, including its licence plate, could receive EC$1,500 if a EC$3,000 fine is imposed.

The Prime Minister expressed frustration that public funds are being spent to clean and beautify the country while individuals continue to dump building material and household waste in bushes and green spaces.

He also called for stronger enforcement against motorists who throw bottles from vehicles and businesses that leave piles of rubbish along city streets.

Browne said litter wardens had recently been told to improve their performance after the programme was found to be poorly managed. The objective, he said, is not punishment for its own sake but a cleaner country for residents and visitors.