The Green Party is calling for recycling to remain free under the new pay-by-weight scheme.

Leader Eamon Ryan said people must not be penalised for recycling and without guidance or regulation, bin companies will be allowed charge what they want.

He said: "We support the concept of pay-by-weight waste charges. As a country, we need to reduce the amount of waste going to land fill. However, allowing waste companies a free-for-all regarding their pricing structures. Consumers will suffer if they are allowed to do that.

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"Other measures to reduce the amount of waste in Ireland, such as the introduction of a deposit return scheme on bottles and cans, and the phasing out of single use plastics should be introduced at the same time the pay-by-weight scheme is rolled out.

"Local authorities should return play a role in overseeing waste collection. Rather than allowing bin companies a free-for-all, setting their own rates and pitching directly to consumers, they should bid for the contracts to collect in various areas. This will be better value for consumers, and ensure it is the public service, rather than profit, that is directing waste policy."

(CD/LM)