Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 2 December 2014
594. Deputy Finian McGrath asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport the position regarding waste dumping on the R158 regional road (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [46008/14]
View answerMy Department has received identical correspondence directly from the individual concerned regarding alleged unauthorised dumping of waste on the R158.
The key legislative code in combating illegal dumping in Ireland is the Waste Management Act 1996 (as amended). In particular, Section 32 of the 1996 Act places the responsibility on the holders of waste to ensure that it is managed in a manner that does not cause environmental pollution. Enforcement of waste legislation including action against illegal activity is a matter for local authorities and the Office of Environmental Enforcement (OEE) within the Environmental Protection Agency.
My Department has replied directly to the individual concerned to confirm that it did not receive copies of the signed contracts for Phases 1 and 2 of the R158 upgrade works on the Trim to Kilcock Road. Furthermore, the Department has clarified that the parties to these contracts would have been Meath County Council and the successful contractor in each case. Accordingly Meath County Council and/or its solicitor would have had possession.
I understand that Meath County Council submitted a report on unauthorised dumping adjacent to the R158 to the EPA on 10 July 2014. As the Statutory Agency with responsibility for enforcement of waste legislation the EPA is the appropriate agency for adjudicating on and pursuing such cases. As Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport, neither I nor my Department has any function in this matter.
