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. 3. Environmental and Economic Impact Reports • Any environmental impact assessments or reviews that were carried out since the launch of the DRS, specifically in relation to its carbon footprint, transport logistics, and the impact of using non-recyclable materials for vouchers. • Correspondence and documents related to any environmental concerns or criticisms raised internally or by third parties about the operational efficiency or environmental efficacy of the DRS. 4. Contractual Agreements and Funding • Copies of all contracts and agreements entered into between the Irish Government and third parties involved in the DRS, including Re-turn, vending machine suppliers, and logistics providers. • Records relating to the funding sources and cost breakdown of the scheme, including the distribution of expenses for machine installation, maintenance, voucher issuance, and advertising campaigns. 5. Monitoring, Compliance, and Reviews • Any documents outlining the monitoring, compliance, and evaluation mechanisms for the DRS, including performance reviews, regular audits, or reports assessing whether the scheme has met its stated goals. • Records of any internal reviews or discussions about modifying or adjusting the scheme in response to public feedback or operational challenges. 6. Communications with Elected Representatives • All correspondence between the Department and any elected representatives discussing the DRS, including any concerns raised about its environmental impact, the choice of materials for vouchers, and compliance with existing waste reduction laws. • Copies of any briefing notes, memos, or advisories provided to Ministers or the Taoiseach’s office in relation to the DRS. 7. Advertising and Public Communication • Copies of all advertising, public communication strategies, and educational materials designed to inform the public about the DRS, including details on messaging around sustainability and environmental impact. • All records of discussions on how to address public concerns regarding the non- recyclable nature of the DRS vouchers and any proposed changes to mitigate these issues. 8. Records Relating to the Voucher System • Full technical specifications and sustainability assessments for the materials used in the production of DRS vouchers. • Documentation and correspondence related to any decisions made about voucher design, selection of materials, and alternative options considered for making the vouchers recyclable. • Internal discussions and correspondence following public or media reports that highlighted the environmental concerns of using non-recyclable materials.