Investigation and Enforcement for Environmental Officers
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Evidence Gathering for Waste Operatives
When gathering evidence for successful prosecution of an environmental crime, Local Authority staff must operate within a specific legal framework and carry out their work according to best practice standards.
Online / In Person
1 day
About this course
This one-day course will equip Local Authority staff with the skills to gather evidence, so it complies with the rules of evidence and is admissible in any subsequent court hearing.
As part of a file for prosecution, Local Authority staff may also have to interview members of the public, document their findings in accordance with best practice standards and present it in a clear and logical manner. Realistic case studies, created by the attendees in advance, in conjunction with La Touche Training, will help to illustrate these principles.
Course syllabus
On completion of this unit delegates will be able to:
Understand the difference offences and your powers:
Gain insight into the different littering offences and the powers granted to Litter Wardens under the Litter Pollutions Acts
Recognise the different types of evidence:
Consider hearsay, oral and documentary evidence, circumstantial evidence and real evidence, continuity of evidence and admissibility of evidence.
Consider which of these types of evidence has more weight
Distinguish between facts, inferences and opinions:
Consider examples of the above by reference to scenarios relevant to their own investigations
Analyse and evaluate evidence arising from an investigation:
Carry out case analysis, identify gaps or ambiguities, identify the proofs required
Consider the facts and the need for more information,
Consider where to get this information from, for example, from documents, real evidence or photographs.
Interview witnesses and suspects:
Learn how to conduct an interview with suspects or witnesses while balancing investigative powers with an individuals’ rights.
Use different questioning techniques and structure the interview.
Document findings to best practice standards:
Create, maintain and enhance best practice standards in note taking and notice drafting.
Create, maintain and enhance best practice standards in statement and report writing.
Our expert trainers
La Touche Training Legal Experts
We work with a wide panel of specialist trainers, all chosen based on their experience and knowledge, experience both in practice and as trained trainers. The majority of our trainers are experienced...
Read BioPractical training with small groups to ensure quality.
Our training sessions are not lectures—they're practical, interactive experiences. The small group format allows every attendee to ask questions, take part in discussions involving practical exercises and role-plays.
This method of training allows attendees to put the skills learned into practice immediately. Course participants benefit from the focused attention and guidance of an independent expert.
Evidence Gathering for Waste Operatives
FAQs
This course provides practical guidance on how to gather, record, and manage evidence in waste enforcement cases. It focuses on ensuring that evidence is legally robust and suitable for use in prosecutions under Irish waste legislation.
The course is aimed at local authority staff, waste enforcement officers, environmental inspectors, and regulatory professionals involved in investigating illegal dumping or breaches of waste management law.
Waste enforcement is primarily governed by the Waste Management Act 1996 and related regulations, which set out the legal framework for waste control and enforcement powers.
If evidence is incomplete, improperly collected, or poorly documented, it may not be admissible in court. Strong evidence is essential to support enforcement actions and secure successful prosecutions.
Common evidence includes photographs, CCTV footage, witness statements, physical waste materials, site notes, and documentation linking individuals or businesses to the offence.
Yes. The course typically addresses the use of CCTV and other surveillance methods, including legal considerations and best practice for ensuring such evidence is admissible.
Evidence should be recorded clearly, accurately, and contemporaneously. This includes detailed notes, proper labelling of exhibits, and maintaining a clear chain of custody.
The chain of custody refers to the documented handling of evidence from the time it is collected to its presentation in court. Maintaining this chain is essential to demonstrate that the evidence has not been altered or contaminated.
Common issues include poor documentation, failure to follow correct procedures, gaps in the evidential chain, and عدم linking the evidence clearly to a suspect. The course helps participants avoid these pitfalls.
Yes. It covers how to compile evidence into a structured file suitable for legal review and prosecution, ensuring all relevant materials are included and clearly presented.
