Michael J Collins (Limerick West, Independent)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Question 231: To ask the Minister for Social and Family Affairs if he will introduce a national refuse waiver similar to other free schemes which operate for old age pensioners and other social welfare recipients. [34695/06]

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

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, is 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 am sensitive to the effects of this situation on social welfare recipients and I have asked my Department to urgently explore possible options.