Public Works Minister Michael Weeks pleaded with people to properly dispose of their waste as he reminded them of punishments for illegal dumping.Mr Weeks held a press conference at Aeolia Drive in Devonshire to complain about the frequent discarding of bulky items such as kitchen appliances and gym equipment.He noted amendments to the Waste and Litter Control Act, passed last November and now in force, mean people who dump objects face being traced by the item’s serial number and prosecuted.Those found guilty of dumping cars, bikes, refrigerators or computers can be fined $10,000 for a first offence or $25,000 for a repeat offence.“The problem of litter and illegal dumping is all too common in Bermuda. Just look behind me at this notorious dumping hot spot, one of many across the Island,” Mr Weeks told the media.“Unsanitary conditions resulting from roadside littering and illegal dumping serve as a breeding ground for mosquitoes and the proliferation of vermin, including rats and feral chickens that feed off improperly handled waste materials.“Not only is littering a public health issue, but it is a blot on the landscape of our Island, tarnishing the beauty of this tourist destination which results in considerable clean-up costs for the Government and the private sector.“Therefore, we are urging those guilty of these acts to think about their country first and end this practice once and for all.”He said the amendments to the Waste and Litter Control Act will “result in better waste handling practices by members of the public and private waste haulers”.Mr Weeks added: “I would like to repeat one last time in closing by pleading for residents as well as public and private waste haulers to properly dispose of their waste and to remember that there are numerous options for the disposal of waste from hazardous waste, to E-waste, to horticultural and household items.“Our Waste Management Section within the Ministry of Public remains committed to answering any questions about how and where the general public can dispose of waste in the proper manner.”