Councils can already issue notices setting out when and how waste should be left out for collection. Offenders can be prosecuted through the courts, with a maximum fine of £1,000. However, from 7 April councils will be able to issue fixed penalty notices of £100 for ‘low level’ waste receptacle offences, such as putting the wrong materials in recycling bins.
The Minister said: “The new powers offer a quicker, more flexible, and more cost-effective alternative to expensive and time-consuming court prosecutions. They should also encourage higher recycling rates.”
She added: “I would stress that this legislation will not compel individual councils to introduce fixed penalties - each council will be free to decide whether this system would suit its own local circumstances. Also, all councils, even those which do introduce this new enforcement system, will still be able to prosecute more serious offences through the courts.”
Notes to Editors:
- Article 10 of the Waste (Amendment) (Northern Ireland) Order 2007 is being commenced on 7 April 2008. This will give district councils discretionary powers to issue fixed penalty notices to the occupiers of houses or business premises for offences relating to the misuse of waste receptacles.
- The legislation sets the amount of the fixed penalty at £100 although district councils will have the power to offer a discount for early payment.
- Further information on the Waste (Amendment) (Northern Ireland) Order 2007 can be found at the Department of Environment website
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