The Government has introduced regulations on waste management and fully implemented the 1996 Waste Management Act so the State is up to date on EU waste directives. All waste disposal and recovery activities will require either a licence from the Environmental Protection Agency, a permit from a local authority, or a registration certificate from the agency or local authority. The new regulations adopted this week extend powers of prosecution against those who do not comply with the Act.
While many of the controls were in place, they were under the control of various authorities. The changes completed this week "update and strengthen the statutory code on waste management", according to Minister of State at the for the Environment, Mr Dan Wallace.
The regulations also strengthen controls on such hazardous wastes as asbestos, waste oils and batteries.
