Consultation
8.The Department consulted on proposed amendments to the 1997 Order in August 2005 and subsequently on the draft Order in Council in July 2006. The majority of the responses to both consultation papers were received from district councils, or groups representing councils, with a particular interest in illegal waste disposal in terms of impact on amenity. While generally welcoming the proposals, respondents’ main concerns were that the proposals were focused too narrowly on the powers of the Department in dealing with waste management and disposal activities and did not provide a greater role for district councils to become involved in this important area.
9.The Department sees merit in the suggestion that district councils should play a more proactive role in policing illegal waste activities. Given the urgent need for stronger enforcement provision, the decision was taken to proceed with the legislation as it now stands. However the Department proposes to engage further with district councils on the possibility of enhancing their powers in this area.