Seán Barrett (Dún Laoghaire, Fine Gael)
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Question 542: To ask the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the response to the proceedings instituted against Ireland in the European Court of Justice by the European Commission for continually failing to fulfil its obligations under the Waste Directive 75/442/EEC since 1977; if Ireland is currently in compliance with the Directive; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [30102/10]

John Gormley (Dublin South East, Green Party)
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A formal response by Ireland to the judgement of the European Court of Justice issued to the European Commission in October 2005 detailing the measures being taken to ensure compliance with the provisions of Council Directive 75/42/EEC of 15 July 1975 on waste, as amended by Council Directive 91/156/EEC of 18 March 1991. There has been subsequent correspondence with the Commission and bilateral meetings have been held to clarify aspects of Ireland's response.

The latest letter issued to the Commission on 16 February 2010 and included updates on the remaining waste sites, on which concerns still exist.

Significant efforts have been made since 2005 to address the issues highlighted in the court judgement, particularly in how we manage waste, and also in the area of enforcement. The progress made has been acknowledged by the Commission. The outstanding requirements relate to historical waste issues and I am determined that these will be resolved as soon as possible.

The closure of this case is ultimately a matter for the Commission. However, I am satisfied that the progress we have made has ensured that a robust framework for regulation and enforcement of waste activities is now in place.