Dara Calleary (Mayo, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

In January of this year, the former Minister, Deputy Kelly, announced the introduction of a new pay-by-weight billing system for bin customers. He made this announcement amid a lot of fanfare, as was his wont. His forecast was that 87% of customers would save money as a result of the new system but the exact opposite has turned out to be the case. It seems from the feedback being received by all Deputies that 87% of people will be paying much more. There has been a frenzy of coverage, showing examples of families which were paying €200 but will now have to pay €400. Some families which were paying €360 are being charged €611. Deputy Lahart is in correspondence with a family which was paying €420 but will now have to pay €770. There is a growing sense of anger and frustration around the country because those who are in line to be hit with these bills from 1 July are not being offered a means of dealing with this problem. They should be helped to find alternative services by shopping around and seeing what options are available. All of the companies are piling on these increases.

If action is not taken now, we will be facing into a very difficult summer. Families throughout the country will be facing very difficult situations. I am concerned that in such circumstances, waste will be disposed of illegally and difficulties will continue to arise. People with disabilities, older people and people with larger families are being hammered by the new regime and are concerned about the lack of information being given to them. The private companies that are increasing the standing charges are exploiting the Government's lack of preparation in order to profit from this situation. In one instance, the annual standing charge has been increased from €60 to €169. The additional burden that is being imposed on working families across the country is forcing them to add to the profits of these companies.

What is the Government proposing to do? We understand from today's Irish Examinerthat the Minister, Deputy Coveney, is proposing to take action on behalf of the Government. Will the Tánaiste outline here in the Chamber exactly what the Minister intends to do to stop these charges from proceeding? Will the Government agree to freeze these charges until people can realise where the savings are, or if the savings actually exist? Will the Tánaiste say whether she and her Government colleagues agree with the increased bin charges? Do they agree with companies profiteering from Government incompetence by adding to standing charges in the way they are doing in this city and this country today? Are they aware of and do they understand the level of anger and worry that exists regarding these charges?

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