199. Deputy Barry Ward asked the Minister for Climate, Energy and the Environment his views on the merits of introducing a deposit return scheme for glass bottles and jars to encourage the proper recycling of same; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [63187/26]

200. Deputy Barry Ward asked the Minister for Climate, Energy and the Environment the position regarding the plans his Department has to introduce a deposit return scheme for glass bottles and jars to encourage the proper recycling of same; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [63186/26]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 199 and 200 together.

Ireland operates a well established separate collection and recycling system for glass bottles and jars using a nationwide network of bottle banks and civic amenity sites.

In 2024, the most recent year for which national statistics are available, the EPA has reported that Ireland's glass recycling rate was 85%, well ahead of the EU target of 60%. While the targets for 2025 and 2030 increase to 70% and 75% respectively, Ireland is on track to also exceed the new targets. Given the continued success of the existing model, there are no plans to change it.