Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 7 July 2016
121. Deputy Brendan Griffin asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government his views on a matter (details supplied) regarding bin charges; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [20329/16]
View answerPay-by-weight charging has the potential to radically change our thinking and behaviour in relation to waste and has been shown to drive waste prevention and better segregation, and indeed ultimately lower costs for many households who manage their waste more efficiently.
This type of charging system:
- is in accordance with the polluter pays principle, and will ensure a more environmentally sustainable approach to the management of waste in Ireland; and
- will result in job creation as a result of the processing of increasing quantities of recycling and organic waste.
Since the waste industry began releasing its pricing plans in relation to the nationwide roll-out of pay-by-weight charging at the start of June, the Government has highlighted its concerns regarding the reported escalation of waste bills for some customers from July, particularly in relation to proposed increases in service charges.
The Government secured an agreement with all major waste collection companies to freeze charges, so that customers pay no more than they are currently paying for waste collection over the next 12 months for the same level of service. As Minister I cannot comment on individual cases but my Department is continuing to engage with the waste industry regarding issues around the changes to the pay by weight regime.
