I propose to take Questions Nos. 21, 23, 26, 38 and 190 together.
The primary object of waste disposal policy is to ensure that all wastes, and particularly any hazardous wastes, are safely disposed of without risk to public health or to the environment. In furtherance of this objective, and bearing in mind developments at the international level, it is necessary to aim at achieving, as far as possible, self-sufficiency in hazardous waste disposal within a realistic time scale. The provision of a hazardous waste incineration facility is a key element of the necessary waste disposal infrastructure.
Five consortia have recently submitted detailed proposals to my Department for the provision of a facility for the incineration of hazardous waste on a contract basis. These proposals are being examined at present but I cannot say, at this stage, when a decision may be reached. It would not be appropriate at this stage to name the consortia involved.
With regard to the location, of such a facility, it has been made clear at all stages that site selection will be a matter for the proposer subject to the requirement to obtain all necessary permits, permissions, and licences under planning and environmental law. In addition, the environmental impact assessment procedure would apply in relation to a proposal of this nature.