Mr. Paul McDonald:

The approval process is where we examine the performance of the IFFPG and its running of this scheme. The figure of 70% to 80% of collection for recycling is extremely positive. It is probably unheard of. We are not aware of a problem having arisen with the proper disposal of this material. We are looking at an 80% collection rate, based on the amount placed on the market each year. As the committee has heard at this meeting and at previous meetings, farmers do not deal with this product on a yearly basis. If stuff is placed on the market, it is perhaps purchased and may not be brought for recycling for two, three or four years. There is a roll-over effect in that regard. However, an 80% collection rate is extremely impressive. We are happy with how the scheme has operated.

The test of the scheme is done when the system operator comes in for its approval. That approval process takes a number of months. We go through everything from the accounts of the system operator, how it approaches governance and how it is performing generally. It is only after that process has been gone through that we would recommend approval of a system operator to the Minister. That is what has happened in this case.