Ulster Unionist Environment spokesperson Tom Elliott MLA has hit out at those who visit local beauty spots and leave piles of litter behind them.
Speaking after a weekend in which a number of local tourist destinations were left strewn with litter and debris, Mr Elliott said,
“This weekend brought with it some absolutely wonderful weather, and quite naturally many people took the opportunity to get out and enjoy it.
However, from the amount of litter and debris left behind at a number of local beauty spots – including Portstewart Strand - it is clear that some people are keen to come to appreciate the natural beauty of Northern Ireland but have absolutely no thought of leaving the place as they found it.
We should take a pride in our Country. We are blessed with many beautiful areas, such as our beaches, especially on the north Coast, and we also have the Mournes and the Fermanagh Lakelands. It is quite right that people should get out and enjoy the local scenery, but it is also right that they should ensure they leave the environment as they found it. Why destroy the very thing you have come out to enjoy?
People need to show more responsibility and an appreciation of the impact they have on the environment. Quite simply, if you are unable to visit beaches and beauty spots without taking your litter home with you, then please stay at home in the first place.”