Smaller retailers must be supported throughout implementation of Deposit Return Scheme, Kildare Senator says

Smaller retailers must be supported throughout implementation of Deposit Return Scheme (DRS), according to one Kildare-based Senator.

Fianna Fáil Senator Fiona O'Loughlin has said that smaller retailers 'cannot be left behind' when the new Scheme begins next month. 

The drink containers included in the scheme are polyethylene terephthalate (PET) plastic bottles and aluminium and steel cans between 150 millilitres and three litres.

A deposit of 15 cent will apply to containers from 150ml to 500ml inclusive and a deposit of 25c for containers over 500mls to 3 litres inclusive. 

Senator O'Loughlin said: "The introduction of the Scheme from February forms a key part of our national strategy to achieve a circular economy.

"It is clear that we cannot continue to make, use and throw away; by moving to a circular economy, we can reduce material use and waste.

"The Scheme will reduce litter and combat the impact of single-use plastics on the environment."

Senator Fiona O'Loughlin (Fianna Fáil). File photograph.

She continued: "I strongly believe that Irish people recognise the need to move to a circular economy and that they want to recycle and to do the right thing.

"However, we also need to ensure that we are bringing smaller retailers along with us.

"I was concerned to see that while around 6,000 retailers will charge the extra deposit fee on drinks, just over 1,800 reverse vending machines are due to go live on the first of February. 

"The cost of a reverse vending machine for a retailer is €15,000, which could prove difficult to meet for smaller retailers in particular.

"Retailers do have the choice of whether they opt for a reverse vending machine or not, and I know Re-turn offers grants to retailers to help with the scheme."

Senator O'Loughlin said that she is calling for the operator of the Scheme, Re-turn, to review the levels of the grants they are providing. 

The Newbridge politician added: "It is vital that they are of the level required to help smaller retailers."

"While I expect an increase in the number of retailers installing reverse vending machines as the go-live date approaches, it is important that smaller ones who may not be able to meet the cost of the machines are supported as much as possible if they wish to install them," she concluded.