Refuse collection firms will still be free to charge for the collection of recyclable waste, Sinn Féin has claimed.

The party raised concerns after plans to introduce a minimum charge for green recycling bins were scrapped by the government.

Sinn Féin spokesperson on Communications, Climate Change and Natural Resources, Brian Stanley TD, welcomed the government's decision, however he called on the Environment Minister to clarify his position on green bin charges and to ensure there is no disincentive for people to recycle.

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He said: "There is an onus on both the Government and the waste management companies that recycling becomes as widespread a practice as possible.

"We need a guarantee that waste management companies do not use the flexibility the Minister has granted to profit from environmentally conscious citizens who recycle their waste."

(CD)