Jerry Cowley (Mayo, Independent)
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Question 153: To ask the Minister for Social and Family Affairs his views on introducing a refuse waiver scheme as part of the household benefits package as the payment of refuse collections is something which is out of reach for most pensioners here; his further views on whether running this through the household benefits packages would simplify things for his Department and for the people involved; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31534/06]

Séamus Brennan (Dublin South, Fianna Fail)
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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 Environment, Heritage and Local Government, a matter for each local authority.

The introduction of a national social welfare scheme to address the issue, for example as part of the household budget scheme, would be complex given the wide range of charging regimes and cost structures that exist in respect of waste management throughout the State. Charges vary across local authorities and even within local authorities where there is more than one provider. In addition, some local authorities already operate waiver schemes. 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.

I have asked my Department to continue to explore possible options and to keep me regularly informed of developments.