Waste Management

Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 8 April 2025

Tuesday, 8 April 2025

Questions (236)

Seán Canney

Question:

236. Deputy Seán Canney asked the Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications if he is aware of the burden being placed on farmers by new requirements being instituted by farm plastic collection firms that farmers must now be able to prove where and when the plastic film was purchased or face a double cost; if he is further aware that many farmers do not purchase the plastic themselves, the plastic is provided by silage contractors and the price included in the costs to the farmer; if he believes that this rule change is placing an unfair burden on farmers; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16735/25]

Written answers

Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications

The Waste Management (Farm Plastics) Regulations 2001 require producers of farm plastics (manufacturers and/or importers) to either establish a deposit and refund scheme for farm plastic waste or to participate in an approved compliance scheme for its recovery and recycling. Since the introduction of the farm plastics extended producer responsibility (EPR) model, producers have chosen to participate in the compliance scheme which is run by the Irish Farm Film Producers' Group (IFFPG) CLG.

My Department oversees the policy, governance and legislative framework for EPR schemes, including for farm plastic waste. IFFPG manages the scheme's operation under the guidance of its Board comprising representatives from farm film producers and farmers as well as 2 independent directors. While I have no role in directing the business of the scheme beyond its compliance with regulatory matters, I understand the scheme is implementing new compliance measures to ensure a fair and sustainable financial basis for its operation.