Trevor Sargent
Question:129 Mr. Sargent asked the Minister for the Environment and Local Government the progress which has been made in moving towards a pay by weight system for domestic waste collection. [13040/03]
Written Answers. - Waste Management.
My Department understands that only three local authorities currently apply a weight based charging system. In addition, "tag per bin" systems, which also give an incentive for waste reduction, are in place in a number of other local authority areas.
Government waste policy recognises that, as a matter of equity, and to give a direct incentive to waste prevention or minimisation and recycling, the level of waste charges imposed on households and businesses, either directly or through gate fees, should be based on usage. Accordingly, the Government expects that all local authorities will move towards introducing weight or volume related charging to the fullest extent possible within the three year target period and I will monitor progress in this regard.
Research is currently under way on the effects of weight based charges for solid waste disposal, as part of the EPA Environmental Research, Technological Development and Innovation (RDTI) Programme, 2000-2006. The outputs from this research project should add significantly to available information on the subject and assist assessment of the potential impact of use-related charges on Irish waste management practice. This research study is scheduled to conclude in 2003.