Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council has reaffirmed its commitment to remaining in the household waste collection market - despite a €10m loss so far this year.

Responding to media reports, the council has stressed black and green bin collection will continue to be provided on all routes.

Officials also said all waste-related infrastructure such as recycling bring centres and glass banks will continue to be provided by the local authority.

However, the council said urgent action was required following the loss of customers, amounting to a financial shortfall of around €10m this year.

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The County Manager has advised the council and the direct labour unions that the termination of the direct labour refuse collection service is under consideration.

Talks with council employees in relation to the reorganisation of the service to reduce costs and improve efficiencies are underway.

In the event of an agreement not being reached, the council will make other arrangements for the collection of the bins, said an official.

A public procurement process, which the council stressed does not mean privatisation, would allow for the appointment of a contractor to provide a black and brown bin collection on behalf of the local authority.

Following the appointment of a successful contractor, the council will continue to control all aspects of the service including charges, management of arrears, as is the case with the current green bin service.

The council has also initiated a campaign to recover substantial arrears owed by many customers who have moved to private operators.

Funding the existing waste collection and recycling service is dependent on all customers paying their environmental waste charges, an official said.

(PR/JM)