With the permission of the Ceann Comhairle, I propose to take Questions Nos. 104, 105 and 106 together.
I am aware that there are a number of processes, including those involving incineration and compaction and including processes such as that referred to in Question No. 104 which can be used to deal with wastes of various types and, in certain cases, to produce useful by-products. It is, however, doubtful whether in our circumstances any of these processes constitutes a viable alternative, of general application, to properly controlled tipping and, of course, some of the modern disposal processes, such as incineration, are inclined to create their own pollution problems.
The responsibility for providing public waste disposal facilities in their areas rests with the local authorities. My Department are conducting a review of the current practice in relation to this service and local authorities will be advised as may be appropriate in the light of the findings. My Department are also keeping in touch with developments abroad, including those in the EEC, in relation to the waste problem.