A statutory framework for recycling is provided by the Waste Management Act, 1996. I am satisfied that adequate progress is being made in the development of waste recycling in accordance with specific regulations under the Act and with targets defined, for example, in the national recycling strategy, Recycling for Ireland, published in 1994. The National Waste Database Report published by the Environmental Protection Agency in 1996 indicates that the recycling rate for packaging waste increased from 10.3 per cent in 1993 to 15.6 per cent in 1995. The national network of "bring sites" increased from 60 in 1990 to 426 in 1995 and is continuing to expand.
A major stimulus to the recycling of packaging waste is now being provided by the Waste Management (Packaging) Regulations, 1997, which came into effect on 1 July 1997. These regulations impose obligations on packaging producers to take specified measures to promote the collection and recovery of packaging waste. They also provide statutory support for the voluntary industry-led REPAK scheme which has targeted a 27 per cent recycling rate for packaging waste by 2001. Similarly, the Waste Management (Farm Plastics) Regulations, 1997, which came into effect on 1 August 1997 will support the collection and recycling of waste plastic from farms. My Department will continue to develop a programme of legislation to promote recycling of appropriate waste streams. The economic viability of recycling generally will be improved by the application of high standards to waste disposal activities in the context of the licensing system operated by the agency under the Waste Management (Licensing) Regulations, 1997.
The various recycling grant schemes operated by my Department since 1989 have contributed significantly to the substantial expansion of recycling activities over the period. Financial assistance is available under the Operational Programme for Environmental Services 1994-9 for the provision of recycling infrastructure by local authorities and the private sector and for waste management strategy studies by regional and local authorities to provide a co-ordinated framework for the development of waste management, including recycling.
Departments must take appropriate steps in relation to their own activities. The Green Government Guide published by my Department encourages Departments to use products made from recycled materials and to recycle waste. These and other appropriate national measures will be pursued by my Department to support recycling in the context of the further implementation of national strategy and the Waste Management Act, 1996.