Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 23 June 2026
110. Deputy John Paul O'Shea asked the Minister for Climate, Energy and the Environment the current status of the review of the deposit return scheme initiated in 2025; the terms of reference of that review; when it is expected to conclude; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [46934/26]
View answerThe framework for governance and oversight of the Deposit Return Scheme (DRS) is set out in the Separate Collection (Deposit Return Scheme) Regulations 2024; the Ministerial Approval issued under those regulations; and the Code of Corporate Governance for Compliance Schemes.
While Re-turn is responsible for all operational and funding matters relating to DRS, officials from the Department monitor performance of the scheme closely and meet with Re-turn monthly to review progress. In addition, quarterly meetings are held to discuss strategic priorities and governance matters. I have also met representatives of the company on a number of occasions.
Regulation 7 of the DRS Regulations provides for a review of Re-turn's approval three years after the grant of approval and every third year thereafter.
Re-turn's Approval was granted in July 2022 which means the first review was initiated in 2025 and this remains under consideration. As this is the first review since the scheme went live, a number of matters require review to ensure the continued effectiveness of the scheme.
The company will publish its Annual Report for 2025 in the coming weeks and will set out its performance against these targets and other metrics in detail.
