Climate Change Policy

Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 9 July 2019

Tuesday, 9 July 2019

Questions (670)

Denis Naughten

Question:

670. Deputy Denis Naughten asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport if his Department has ceased the purchase and use of single-use plastics; the public bodies and agencies under his remit to which he has issued an instruction to cease the purchase and use of single-use plastics; when the instruction issued; the bodies which have confirmed that they no longer purchase and use single-use plastics; the bodies which have not provided such confirmation to date; when they will confirm; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29993/19]

Written answers

Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport

The Government decision of 03 January 2019 was aimed at reducing the use of single use plastics, as well as introducing measures to cut waste in food and paper, and to improve efficiency in the use of energy and water, reducing waste generation and maximising recycling. My colleague the Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment is the lead Minister on this matter.

I can confirm that my Department has ceased the purchase and use of single use plastics.

The Government decision also required that all public bodies and agencies were to cease purchase of single-use plastic beverage cups, cutlery and drinking straws after 31 March 2019, as well as reviewing waste management and recycling measures. All public bodies under the aegis of my Department will be required to report by end November 2019 on their compliance with this decision.