Austin Macauley 24 June 2015

Mind your language! Council introduces swearing ban

A local authority in Ireland has introduced a by-law banning the use of offensive language in public parks, playgrounds and open spaces.

Waterford City & County Council has used powers outlined in the Local Government Act 2001 to crack down on nuisance behaviour.

Under 'general regulations' relating to use of parks and open spaces it states: 'No person shall… beg, gamble, use obscene or profane language, behave indecently or cause annoyance.'

Cllr Lola O'Sullivan said the move was about encouraging respect.

'The “no cursing” rule is creating a lot of headlines,' she told the BBC. 'But that law has come about simply because you might have a group of teenagers who are in the park and are loud and using bad language.

'In fact, it might be the only time they use bad language, because they are out of the house.

'So we want to put up a sign that says 'no cursing, no smoking' among other things.

'I know in other cities, including Belfast, they have signs in their parks with a list of rules and regulations. So it'll be like that.

'Waterford doesn't have any more anti-social behaviour problems than anywhere else – we just want to encourage people to be respectful in the parks.'

SIGN UP
For your free daily news bulletin
Highways jobs

Corporate Director Community Development

North Yorkshire Council
£145,894 to £169,693 plus relocation support
North Yorkshire Council is entering an exciting new phase of transformation, growth and opportunity. Northallerton, North Yorkshire
Recuriter: North Yorkshire Council

Functional Family Therapy Practitioner

Cheshire East Council
£43,149 - £49,658
Do you want to be part of an innovative service that delivers evidence-based interventions and helps families thrive? Macclesfield, Cheshire
Recuriter: Cheshire East Council

Director of Adult Social Care

Nottingham City Council
£101,636 - £112,285 per annum (SLMG1)
As a key member of the Directorate Leadership Team, you will provide visible and effective leadership Nottinghamshire
Recuriter: Nottingham City Council

Director of Adults Service Development

Nottingham City Council
£101,636 - £112,285 per annum (SLMG 1)
This is a strategic improvement and assurance leadership role focused on driving the Adults Social Care improvement journey Nottingham, Nottinghamshire
Recuriter: Nottingham City Council

Adult Social Care and Commissioning Director Roles

Nottingham City Council
£101,636 - £112,285 per annum (SLMG 1)
This is an exciting time to join Nottingham City Council and help shape the future of Adult Social Care for the city.  Nottingham, Nottinghamshire
Recuriter: Nottingham City Council
Linkedin Banner