asked the Minister for Local Government if he has noted the substantial increase in charges being made by local authorities for the dumping of refuse by firms who provide a refuse collection service; and the action he proposes to take in the matter.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Refuse Dumping.
6.
I have no function in regard to the level of charges made by local authorities for facilities provided for the dumping of refuse collected by private firms. Local authorities are not legally obliged to make such facilities available and, where they do, it is a matter for them to decide on charges.
Does the Minister consider it desirable that dumps be operated by local authorities rather than by private firms? Will he not agree that facilities should be provided for contractors and that only reasonable charges be made in respect of this work?
Local authorities are finding it difficult enough to get dumps where they can put the refuse for which they are responsible. For that reason I should hate to enter into any kind of agreement that they should also be responsible for private firms. I am sure it would be possible to make an arrangement between private firms and people who have dumps for the disposal of waste. I think it would be very foolish of local authorities to become involved in something like that but if they do become involved I think they are entitled to charge what they consider to be a reasonable rate. I would not have a function in fixing such a charge.