Eamon Ryan (Dublin Bay South, Green Party)
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Re-turn, the Deposit Return Scheme (DRS) operator, has introduced an end-to-end IT system to support the DRS and provide real-time data on how the scheme is operating. Data being collected by Re-turn from reverse vending machines includes information on rejections and this is being closely monitored to understand the reasons why containers are being rejected and to ensure any issues are being addressed. To date, the vast majority of containers are being rejected because a deposit has not been paid on the container.

A transition period is currently in place to manage the selling off of old stock and the introduction of new stock. The transition period will last for 4 months and from 1st June 2024 retailers can only sell drinks containers which include the Re-turn logo.

During the transition period, there will continue to be drinks containers sold without a deposit being charged and these will not be accepted by reverse vending machines. Customers who are charged a deposit on a drinks container will get their deposit back when they return the empty container to a reverse vending machine.

Should retailer refuse to take-back or refund an empty container on which a deposit has been paid, Re-turn, the DRS operator, has advised that consumers should contact it by email at info@re-turn.ie or by phone at (LoCall) 1800 852 752.

Consumers can use the barcode checker on Re-turn’s website to confirm whether a refund is eligible on their container. Containers which are not eligible can continue to be recycled in recycling bins or at civic amenity sites.