Department of Climate, Energy and the Environment

I request access to the following categories of records: 1. Initial Development and Implementation of the DRS • Copies of any feasibility studies, impact assessments, or consultation documents related to the Deposit Return Scheme, including reports discussing the expected environmental benefits, economic impact, and public feedback prior to its introduction. • Records, meeting minutes, presentations, and correspondence relating to the proposal, design, and implementation phases of the DRS. • All correspondence between the Department of the Environment, Climate and Communications and the Department of Finance or any other relevant governmental department about the budget and projected costs of the DRS, particularly discussions on the financing of the reverse vending machines and operational logistics. • Records detailing the selection of the paper type used for the issuance of DRS vouchers and any subsequent reviews or internal discussions on the sustainability of these materials. 2. Meetings and Consultations • Minutes of all meetings, consultations, and working groups held between government officials, private companies (including Re-turn and any other companies involved in the scheme), environmental advocacy groups, and other stakeholders regarding the establishment and execution of the DRS. • Details of any public or private consultations carried out to determine the format, scale, and operation of the DRS, including feedback from stakeholders.