Vol. 575 No. 4
104 Mr. Boyle asked the Minister for the Environment Heritage and Local Government if the moneys collected under the plastic bag levy are at expected levels; and if not the measures being made to ensure full compliance with the levy. [25718/03]
Since the introduction of the plastic bag levy, receipts remitted to my Department by the Revenue Commissioners have been at a consistent level and amount to almost €16.7 million. Introduction of the levy has led to a dramatic reduction in the number of disposable plastic bags provided to consumers with a consequent positive environmental benefit. Revenues from the levy are paid into the environment fund, which may be used to support a wide range of waste management, litter and other environmental initiatives as provided for in the legislation.
The Waste Management (Environmental Levy) (Plastic Bag) Regulations 2001 designate the Revenue Commissioners as the responsible authority for enforcing the collection of the plastic shopping bag levy. In addition, the regulations impose a supplementary requirement on retailers to pass on the full amount of the levy to customers, and this regulatory provision is being enforced by local authorities. The relevant enforcement officers have extensive powers to enter any retail premises, conduct any searches or investigations considered necessary and inspect or remove any records, books and documents for the purposes of any proceedings in relation to the levy.
My Department has had few complaints about non-compliance. However, I recognise the need to ensure that the efforts and commitment of the vast majority of retailers are not undermined by the non-compliance of a few. My Department wrote to local authorities in regard to the regulations and also met representatives of all local authorities to discuss enforcement and other aspects of the levy, prior to its introduction.
A further detailed circular on enforcement was issued to local authorities asking them to pay particular attention to the identification and follow up of any non-compliance with the law. All complaints received in my Department concerning non-compliance are forwarded to the relevant local authority and the Revenue Commissioners. The operation of the levy is also subject to the normal Revenue Commissioners auditing arrangements.
