Local Authority Charges

Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 14 March 2012

Wednesday, 14 March 2012

Ceisteanna (116)

Catherine Murphy

Ceist:

118 Deputy Catherine Murphy asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government, with reference to his decision to set the septic tank registration fee at €5 instead of the proposed €50 for an initial period to encourage affected householders to register early, how it is now proposed to fund the proposed inspectorate regime, in view of the fact that the total potential income accruing to the State from the levy is likely to be dramatically reduced; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [14374/12]

Freagraí scríofa

Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government (Deputy Phil Hogan)

The reduced registration fee of €5 will apply for the first three months of the registration period which will commence in mid-April. A registration fee of €50 will apply thereafter. The risk-based approach to inspections will mean that the new system will be less expensive to operate but will be equally as effective in protecting public health and the environment. I am satisfied that the overall resources available will be adequate to fund the implementation of the registration and inspection systems.