Olwyn Enright (Laois-Offaly, Fine Gael)

I am not sure if that is a "Yes" or "No" to the possibility of a waiver system. Half of the local authorities are in a position to offer a waiver because the refuse collection service is not privatised in their areas. In the 17 local authorities where the service is privatised, the local authorities cannot offer a waiver as they do not receive the charges, which is why I have asked the Minister and his Department to implement a waiver scheme.

The exceptional needs payment is not the way to do it because that payment might be made monthly, weekly or annually. I urge the Minister to reconsider the possibility of the Department providing such a scheme. It need not be dissimilar to the fuel allowance given that the cost of fuel, depending on the type being used, can vary between different areas and this does not alter the fact that it is a standardised payment. The Minister could have discussions with the Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government about the issue but he should consider letting his Department take it on board. It is difficult for some people to pay the charge. The average charge is €360 per annum or approximately €32 per month. Many elderly people and social welfare recipients are simply unable to pay it.

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