SIPTU called for investment in Bord Na Móna Recycling to ensure the creation of a sustainable semi-state waste disposal service at a meeting of the Joint Committee on Environment and Climate Action on 9th July in Leinster House, Dublin.
Addressing the Committee, SIPTU Transport, Energy, Aviation and Construction Divisional Organiser, Adrian Kane, said: “Bord na Móna Recycling is a significant provider of domestic waste collection services. SIPTU represents the majority of workers in Bord na Móna Recycling. We believe that withdrawing Bord na Móna from the domestic waste ‘market’ would be a strategic mistake for the State.
“Domestic waste collection is defined as ‘a natural monopoly’ by the Competition and Consumer Protection Commission. The reported proposed sale of this commercial state company will result in further consolidation within large private companies within the industry. Any sale of Bord na Móna Recycling will significantly accelerate the process of driving down workers’ pay and terms and conditions of employment as well as having an adverse environmental impact.”
He added: “We believe that investment is needed, possibly through the mechanism of EU and National Just Transition funds, to safeguard the long-term future of Bord na Móna Recycling and the good employment it provides. We also believe Bord na Móna Recycling sets the highest standards in the sector concerning the development of recycling and a circular economy approach to waste services.”
SIPTU Sector Organiser, Pat McCabe, said: “Domestic waste workers were considered essential workers during the pandemic. They are central to establishing a dynamic sustainable circular economy. The majority of waste workers, those who empty our bins, are paid below the living wage of €14.80.”
He added: “It is not sustainable to expect that essential workers in a crucial sector of our economy must continue to labour for pay rates that cannot provide them with an acceptable standard of living.”