PDs propose levies to promote recycling

The Progressive Democrats have proposed a new levy to penalise companies which do not promote recycling.

Michael McDowell, the party’s candidate in Dublin south-east, said the loss of 375 jobs in the Irish Glass recycling plant in Ringsend has highlighted the need for financial incentives to encourage manufacturers to make use of recycling.

He criticised Irish brewers, distillers, bottlers and food producers who failed to commit to long-term contracts with Irish Glass because they could source glass cheaper abroad.

Mr McDowell said a new levy of around 10c per bottle would boost recycling in Ireland if there was an exemption for manufacturers who committed themselves to approved recycling schemes.