4.Mr McKay announced his intention to bring forward legislation in a consultation exercise in April 2010, having raised the matter with the Minister of the Environment on a number of occasions.
5.The consultation exercise sought a wide range of views from organisations and stakeholders including the Councils, the Northern Ireland Departments, the General Consumer Council of Northern Ireland and environmental organisations. Around 25 written responses were received, most of which were very supportive of the proposal, although there were differing views on a number of issues including what the proceeds of the levy should go towards and the cost to retailers.