In November 2021, the Deposit Return Scheme Regulations (S.I. No 599 of 2021) were signed. Under these Regulations, it is the responsibility of producers to establish and operate a Deposit Return Scheme (DRS), to be funded by the following:
• Registration fees set by the approved body,
• Producer fees set by the approved body,
• Unredeemed deposits,
• Revenue derived from sale of returned containers, and
• Any other income sources created by the approved body.
In July 2022, I approved an application from Deposit Return Scheme Ireland CLG (trading as Re-turn) to operate as an approved body under the DRS Regulations. Re-turn is a new, not-for-profit company set up by beverage producers and retailers to meet their obligations under the DRS Regulations. Re-turn is responsible for all operational matters relating to the DRS, including the setting of registration and producer fees.
I am aware of the concerns raised by small producers in relation to DRS, including those highlighted in a submission received from microbrewers. Re-turn are engaging with those producers and are in the process of considering what measures can be put in place to address those concerns.
My officials have been in contact with the microbrewer's representative body and I also intend to meet with them as soon as is possible.
