SDLP Foyle MLA Mark H Durkan has criticised the decision by DAERA Minister Michelle McIlveen to shoot down a proposal to introduce a bottle deposit return scheme in the North.
He said: ”The concept of this scheme is hardly a new one; many of us will remember getting cash for returning empty lemonade bottles in our childhood and people will see it very much in operation in many countries around the world.
“During my tenure as Environment Minister I saw the potential of a scheme like this to dramatically reduce litter, improve our recycling rates and minimise the amount of waste going to landfill or abroad for gasification.
“It would be a very positive step on our journey to becoming a zero waste society.
Officials were carrying out a feasibility study and I engaged with a number of stakeholders to ascertain their views.
“The response was generally very good although some concerns were expressed at the potential cost of establishing the scheme.
“I spoke to the Scottish Environment Minister about the prospect of doing some joint working in the belief that collaboration would cut costs.
“I discussed with officials the need to carry out a pilot scheme here in the North and was disappointed to hear from the new minister that this progressive policy is not being pursued.”
