Richard Bruton
Question:128 Mr. R. Bruton asked the Minister for the Environment and Local Government the plans he has to meet the tenant's association, NATO, in response to its request; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16881/00]
Written Answers. - Refuse Collection Charges.
The National Association of Tenants Organisations, NATO, recently sought a meeting with the Minister for the Environment and Local Government to discuss refuse collection charges. In reply, NATO was advised that EU and national policy and legislation place particular emphasis on the need to give effect to the polluter pays principle in respect of waste disposal costs. The collection of household waste, the imposition of refuse charges and appropriate exercise of statutory waiver provisions are matters for each local authority and in which the Minister for the Environment and Local Government has no function. In the circumstances the Minister considered that a meeting was not appropriate.