Derek Keating (Dublin Mid West, Fine Gael)
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Question 26: To ask the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government if he will give details of the cost incurred by local authorities to address the dumping of diesel sludge on motorways; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6511/12]

Phil Hogan (Carlow-Kilkenny, Fine Gael)
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Enforcement action in relation to illegal diesel laundering activities is primarily a matter for the Revenue Commissioners, given the potential associated losses to the Exchequer. In carrying out their functions as competent authorities under waste legislation, local authorities have a role in taking the necessary measures to ensure that any waste generated and left abandoned by diesel launderers is safely disposed of so as to avoid endangering human health or harming the environment. As the waste involved is classified as hazardous, it is sent abroad for disposal.

Up to now, my Department has reimbursed in full, from the Environment Fund, the costs associated with such safe disposal on an exceptional and case by case basis, in recognition of the particular difficulties which arose for the local authorities concerned in responding to instances of illegal dumping of oil-laundering residues. Since 2003, a total of €4.677m has been provided for this purpose, comprising €3.254 million to Louth County Council, €1.395 million Monaghan County Council and €30,000 to Offaly County Council.

My Department participates in a Cross Border Fuel Fraud Enforcement Group led by the Revenue Commissioners. While delivery of a complete solution to this problem is challenging, it must necessarily involve effective and co-ordinated enforcement of the law from both a revenue and waste management perspective and by authorities on both sides of the border.