Ann Ormonde (Fianna Fail)

I wish to share time with Senator White. I welcome the Minister and congratulate the Government, whose plan began in 1998. I compliment South Dublin County Council, the leader in piloting schemes and introducing initiatives in the Dublin area. The public now understands the need to recycle and has changed its thinking. The grey bins, which changed the environment, are evidence of this, as are the new green bins and the pay per use scheme. This allowed the householder to reduce bin collection to once per month in winter. The public has grasped the need to keep the environment clean and to be proud of it. Under the new waste management plan, powers exist to challenge illegal dumping.

Seaside rural areas with mobile homes are littered by evening time during the summer months. Local authorities must be vigilant about this issue. Although enforcement officers are on patrol, resources must be increased because we must create an image during the summer when tourists are visiting. A bad impression is created by litter and illegal dumping.

I welcome the WEEE scheme, which has been a major success. At the time I was not in favour because prices increased and there was considerable opposition to it.

However, it has exceeded its target beyond all expectations and is one of the best measures I have seen in recent times.

An awareness campaign is very important. We must adopt a holistic approach and continue to promote this issue in our schools. The national spring clean campaign is important. Leadership is important; we need drive, motivation and resources. We are well on our way to achieving our goals. We have already achieved success and we should strive towards further successes. All we need to do is to co-ordinate all the stakeholders to ensure we have a smashing environment.