Phil Hogan (Carlow-Kilkenny, Fine Gael)

It is interesting that the Competition Authority, which had strong views on this issue some years ago, appears to have changed its mind recently. It is now indicating that the existing collection system is more competitive and consumer friendly than it previously thought. It is amazing that such an august body as the Competition Authority can change its mind on these matters. Taking that into account, which it would expect me to do, the issue of franchise bidding and the household collection system is still in the programme for Government but, equally, I am looking at enforcing the existing system better through a stronger permit system as well. All these issues are on the table to ensure we have a competitive system that gives good consumer choice and deals with the obligations on citizens to ensure their waste is collected.

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