211. Deputy Emer Currie asked the Minister for Climate, Energy and the Environment the position regarding the introduction of a pay-on-behalf model for online platforms in respect of environmental and other fees applying to distance sellers supplying goods to Irish consumers, similar to those already paid by Irish importers and distributors; when he expects such a model to be formally adopted in Ireland; whether his Department has set a target date for its implementation; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [63844/26]

Compliance by distance sellers is a critical issue for Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) in Ireland and across the EU. Distance sellers that do not meet their EPR obligations enjoy a cost advantage over their Irish-based counterparts who have paid their EPR fees.

Ensuring all obligated producers pay their share is essential to the credibility and success of Ireland’s EPR schemes. In this regard, a pay-on-behalf model, whereby online platforms discharge certain EPR obligations on behalf of producers selling via their channels, would be of assistance in promoting compliance.

I understand that such models have been implemented in other EU Member States, particularly targeting waste electrical and electronic equipment (WEEE) and batteries. The Department, in consultation with members of the stakeholder Working Group on Distance Selling, is examining the feasibility of adopting similar approaches here. I understand that this would require updates to the governing Regulations.

At an EU level, I am hopeful that an effective EU-wide approach to deal with distance sellers can be developed within the proposed EU Circular Economy Act, which is due to be published in the second half of the Irish Presidency and is expected to address a number of challenges relating to EPRs. I am conscious that any amendments to Ireland's EPR Regulations will need to take account of EU developments.

Packaging producers in Ireland are subject to the new Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR), which applied from 12 August 2026. Repak, Ireland's Producer Responsibility Organisation (PRO) for the packaging EPR, is supporting producers in implementing the new requirements, including online sellers. Repak is facilitating interim EPR registration and fee arrangements for online sellers while also exploring possible alternative pay-on-behalf arrangements with online marketplaces for 2027.

Additionally, I understand that there is ongoing engagement by online platforms with the PROs for WEEE and Batteries, and with the national Producer Register (PRL), to put in place appropriate reporting and registration processes that will facilitate compliance by third-party sellers.

I welcome these developments. The Department will continue to work with relevant stakeholders and regulators to strengthen compliance by distance sellers and ensure a level playing field for compliance businesses.