Michael Kitt (Fianna Fail)

In view of the dreadful gridlock on the N17 from Claremorris to Tuam and Galway, it is urgent that decision is taken. I pay tribute to the Leader for her work in setting up a study group on the issue.

I request a debate on waste management in view of the fact that private groups are making applications for landfills at a time when local authorities have drawn up very good plans for waste management. Landfills are supposed to form part of a regional waste management policy and it is urgent that we tackle this matter.

I pay tribute to the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government for providing funding to extract gases from landfill, including the sites in Ballinasloe and, I understand, Limerick. This is a positive development. When private groups are competing with public groups on the location of landfills, it begs the question as to what rationale will apply with regard to waste management.