Brendan Howlin
Question:96 Mr. Howlin asked the Minister for the Environment if he will give details of the survey on recycling which is currently being undertaken by his Department; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Written Answers. - Recycling of Waste Survey.
As I have previously stated, the purpose of the study commissioned by my Department is to assess the overall potential for recycling in Ireland from the domestic/commercial waste stream. The brief for the study calls for an assessment of current collection and disposal arrangements, an evaluation of the optimum roles for commercial/industrial interests as well as the voluntary/co-operative sector in promoting recycling activity, and an examination of the scope for improving markets for recyclable materials. The consultants have also been asked to make recommendations on the setting of clear targets for improving national recycling performance and to analyse possibilities for financing these targets, particularly in prospect of the new legislation on waste being prepared in my Department. I expect that the study will be completed shortly and I propose to publish it.