Phil Hogan (Carlow-Kilkenny, Fine Gael)

Deputy Collins is correct in regard to the difficulties we may encounter in resolving this issue. The issues he outlined are arising elsewhere but I am aware of one provincial town which is served by 14 waste collection companies, five of which collect from the same estate. That is not sustainable nor is it in the interest of the companies concerned. I am considering the idea of franchised areas in which companies would compete to operate for a defined period, subject to certain quality provisions, or some alternative methodology.

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