Poolbeg clause could cost taxpayer €350m

Taxpayers could be exposed to up to €350m in financial penalties over 25 years for the Poolbeg incinerator planned by Dublin City Council.

A new report compiled for former Environment Minister John Gormley has revealed that a 'put or pay' clause in the council's contract with American waste management company, Covanta could cost as much as €14m per year.

Waste volumes would have to increase again at Celtic Tiger rates for the next 25 years to avoid the financial penalties.

In a letter to his successor, Minister Eamon O'Cuiv, the leader of the Greens John Gormley called for the findings of the report to be published in full immediately.