Mr. Matthew Collins:

The Deputy raises a number of issues. To be clear, we greatly welcome this proposal. It is very valuable in providing the ability and powers for member states to take actions in this area.

It is not I who am saying this is transboundary. In terms of disagreeing with the transboundary nature, it is the European Commission that considers this a transboundary issue. The material we are talking about has been identified as the majority of waste litter arising in the marine environment. The materials can arise in one member state and affect another. It is not that we are arguing that it has to be a transboundary issue; the reality of the environment means that it is transboundary in nature, and the European Commission agrees.