Niall Collins (Limerick, Fianna Fail)

This week I met the largest service provider in the Limerick region, Mr. Binman. The company had to apply for examinership last week and is now in the examinership process. I am sure the Minister is aware of this. The case is due for mention in court tomorrow. It is a family business with more than 300 direct employees and more than 300 indirect employees. It is an employer of major significance in the region, with 65,000 customers who are happily served and are happy to continue their custom with the company. We all hope it will come through the examinership process successfully. I met the company to discuss a number of issues. I referred to the consultation process which the Department was undertaking in the context of the issue raised by Deputy Stanley of licensing a single operator in an area. It was indicated to me that the waste collection service had originally been acquired from Limerick County Council and Limerick City Council when they opted for privatisation. An issue arises for service providers which, as they see it, have purchased an asset they are now entitled to utilise and on which they seek a return. I wish to inform the consultation process in that regard.

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