Fianna Fáil have brought forward a motion to set up an independent waste regulator.

However, the Government confirmed that it would set up an interim watchdog to oversee the industry, until a regulator is established.

TD for Mayo Lisa Chambers said: "I support the environmental aspects of this new payment structure as it should encourage more people to separate and reduce their waste.

"However, the manner in which this Government attempted to rush in the new pay-by-weight structure was amateurish. A promised public awareness campaign never transpired and people were genuinely concerned that their waste charges will increase as a result of this new pricing structure. These fears were most acute in rural counties like Mayo, where there are only a small number of waste disposal providers. This lack of competition could see some companies hike up their prices, leaving consumers to bear the brunt of this new measure.

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"Our motion, which argues for a waste regulator, will ensure that the consumer is at the heart of the process. A regulator can ensure fair practice within the sector, and reward operators who behave in an efficient and consumer-friendly way. I welcome the fact that the Government has finally seen sense. However, in the unlikely event that the Government's analysis does not provide for a regulator, we will introduce our own Bill on the matter."

(CD)