Tom Hayes (Tipperary South, Fine Gael)
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Question 23: To ask the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the progress there has been in reforming the national waste strategy; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [36529/08]

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 and biological treatment processes, will underpin the overall review as provided for in the Programme for Government. The procurement process has been completed and Eunomia Research and Consulting Ltd. (and partners) have been retained to undertake the study. Extensive consultation with key stakeholders is envisaged and I anticipate that the study will be completed by mid-2009.