John Gormley (Dublin South East, Green Party)

Regarding that report, in February 2010 I appointed Mr. John Hennessy SC under section 224 of the Local Government Act 2001 to prepare a report on risks which may be faced by the local authority in connection with this project. This report has recently been submitted and I am considering its findings in consultation with the Attorney General in advance of bringing it to Government. That report goes into considerable detail on the risks and future costs, with particular emphasis on the "put or pay" clause versus the costs that will ensue if the contract is broken. I have seen the exaggerated claims made by the company and Dublin City Council both in the media and at an Oireachtas joint committee hearing, to the effect that the taxpayer will have a substantial bill to pay. These claims are grossly exaggerated. In advance of the report being published I cannot say any more than that.

The company is very good at sending out its PR people. I have seen media reports suggesting that if I introduced these levies, it would not proceed. Government policy will not be determined by any multinational. We are the Government and will proceed with our policy on waste management and will not be intimidated or deterred by any company.

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