Phil Hogan (Carlow-Kilkenny, Fine Gael)

The Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government was represented on the PPP steering group for this project. Therefore, the Department was involved with it and it was in line with existing Government policy. In addition, some finance was contributed to the project by the Department. Now that the Department is no longer in consultation on it, has the Minister been in contact with Dublin City Council about the implications of the legislation? Also, will there be a contingent liability on the taxpayer?

What is the current status on mechanical biological treatment plants, MBTPs? In order to meet landfill directives we will need additional MBT plants and we must ensure we meet obligations and requirements under the directive deadlines or we will be exposed to further fines from Europe. What is the plan of action with regard to these plants and where are they?

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