TD calls for rural islands to be included in deposit return scheme
Independent Ireland TD, Michael Collins has called on the Minister for Environment to urgently address the exclusion of rural island communities from Ireland's Deposit Return Scheme.
Deputy Collins highlighted the lack of return facilities for plastic bottles and cans on islands such as Sherkin, Cape Clear, Bere Island, Heir Island, and Whiddy.
The Cork South - West TD said: "Island residents are being unfairly excluded from a scheme that is meant to promote environmental responsibility.
"There is currently no return point on any of these islands, which is causing significant inconvenience and frustration.”
According to Deputy Collins, many families particularly the elderly, families with young children, and those without private transport, face considerable challenges in accessing the scheme.
"To return a few bottles, residents must take a ferry to the mainland and then travel by bus to the nearest return point—often in Skibbereen," he said.
"This is not only time-consuming and costly, but it also places an unfair burden on communities that are already geographically isolated," he added.
The TD is urging the government to introduce return facilities directly on the islands or, at a minimum, provide designated drop-off points or mobile return units
He said: “This is a simple, practical step that would make a real difference. It would ensure that islanders are not left behind in our national efforts toward sustainability and climate action.
"Island communities share the same environmental values as the rest of the country. They deserve equal access to participate in this important initiative," Deputy Collins added.
Separately today (July 22), Deputy Collins called for Transport Infrastructure Ireland (TII) to appear before the Transport Oireachtas committee to address growing concerns over the development of walkways, and the compulsory acquisition of farmland.
Deputy Collins expressed alarm at what he described as a “serious lack of transparency and fairness” in how these projects are being advanced.
He said: "Farmers across West Cork and beyond are being pressured into surrendering land for public walkways, often without proper consultation or compensation. This is not how a democratic planning process should operate.
"We need accountability. TII must explain why farmers are being sidelined and why their rights are being compromised in the name of public infrastructure."
“Walkways are welcome when they are agreed upon—but they must never be imposed. No landowner should be forced to give up their land against their will. The rights of landowners must be protected," he added.
While Deputy Collins reaffirmed his support for walkways that enhance tourism, recreation, and community wellbeing, he stressed that such projects must be built on mutual respect and voluntary agreement.
The TD is urging the transport committee to schedule a hearing with TII officials as soon as possible and to ensure that affected landowners are given a platform to voice their concerns.
