Denis Naughten (Roscommon-Galway, Independent) | Oireachtas source

I thank Deputy Lawless. As I set out previously, I am precluded under statute from intervening in matters concerning waste management planning and industrial emissions licensing, which are functions of local authorities and the EPA, respectively. In addition, matters pertaining to planning legislation, including issues regarding traffic management, do not fall under my remit as Minister for Communication, Climate Action and the Environment.

Notwithstanding that, the regional waste management planning office, working in a co-ordinated and co-operative manner to drive the implementation of waste management plans, will ensure that the health of communities and the environment in the three regions are not compromised. The regional waste management planning officers will continue to engage with industry and other waste regulatory bodies, including my Department, concerning waste capacity developments.

On the issue of waste capacity developments, I understand that earlier this year, following consultation with the three regional waste management planning officers, the industry and other waste regulatory bodies, including my Department, it was evident that some collectors were experiencing difficulties in finding suitable residual waste disposal outlets. On foot of a recommendation by the three regional waste management planning officers, additional disposal capacity was released under section 56 of the Waste Management Act 1996 for a limited period of time to overcome a pinch point experienced in the State in the first half of 2016.

As I previously stated, all documents relating to individual licences, including inspection information, are available to view on the EPA website, www.epa.ie. It is the responsible authority. I have found the EPA to be very thorough. I know there are ongoing issues and I will not and cannot comment on them.

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