Michael Finucane (Fine Gael)

I am interested in the response of the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government to the fact that 2,000 tonnes of household waste, involving nine local authorities and private contractors, was found in 80 containers in Belgium. Given the degree of privatisation and semi-privatisation which is taking place in local authorities, what controls exist in respect of this activity? This waste was shipped out of the country in containers to Belgium for transhipment to India and Singapore. It was destined for recycling and described as "paper". However, when the containers were opened, smelly, rotten household waste was found. In this context, it is hypocrisy when we talk about recycling. Will the Leader arrange for the Minister to come before the House to clarify what controls exist in this regard?