Joe Costello (Dublin Central, Labour)
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I wrote that letter in the context of the very bitter industrial dispute ongoing between Greyhound and the approximately 80 SIPTU employees. It has been the focus of media attention so it is well known. This matter is both an industrial dispute and also a matter to do with the national strategy on waste management, recovery and recycling. It relates to the issue of the Poolbeg incinerator which is the disposal mechanism for waste. It also relates to the licensing and permit system which has shifted dramatically in recent years and the manner in which local authorities deal with it. I refer to the manner in which the private sector is involved in a very free-for-all marketing. There is no tendering process and all the players engage in the market. This is an issue for the public sector in the areas of health and sanitation and the waste management strategy. It is an issue that in my view comes within the remit of this committee. The dispute is an immediate issue but there are broader issues regarding its implications and impact.