David Stanton (Cork East, Fine Gael)
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Question 1497: To ask the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if the review of waste policy as per the commitment given in the programme for Government has begun; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31291/08]

John Gormley (Dublin South East, Green Party)
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The Programme for Government includes a commitment to undertake an international review of waste management policy. In February 2008 a procurement process was initiated to appoint consultants to undertake comprehensive research on the waste sector in Ireland and to cover a wide range of issues to help identify how best to proceed with further efforts to reduce waste levels, improve recycling rates and deliver equitable and cost-effective waste management solutions.

This study, the scope of which also includes issues such as how best to promote alternative technologies such as mechanical biological treatment processes, will underpin the overall review as provided for in the Programme for Government. The procurement process has now been completed and I have recently appointed Eunomia Research and Consulting Ltd (and Partners) to undertake the study. Extensive consultation with key stakeholders is envisaged and it is anticipated that the study will be completed by mid-2009.