Olivia Mitchell (Dublin South, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Question 447: To ask the Minister for Social and Family Affairs if there are plans to increase the non-contributory pension in view of the absence of a national waste charges waiver for the elderly. [22171/05]

Séamus Brennan (Dublin South, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Given the wide range of charging regimes and cost levels that exist in respect of waste management throughout the State, the introduction of a measure such as an across the board increase in the old age non-contributory pension to address the issue would not be feasible. Any system put in place to assist people who rely on private domestic waste collection would have to be sensitive to the different local arrangements. The setting of waste management charges and the introduction of waivers in respect of waste charges is, as stated by my colleague, the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government, a matter for each local authority and a number have in fact done so.