Re-turn bins could raise funds for schools in Laois says councillor
Cllr Tommy Mulligan said Re-turn bins could raise funds for schools in Laois if they were placed on their premises
A COUNCILLOR said if the Deposit Return Scheme was provided in all schools in Laois it would be an opportunity for the schools to raise much needed funds as well as reduce waste in local communities.
Cllr Tommy Mulligan proposed such a motion at the November meeting of Laois County Council.
He said since the rollout of the Re-turn scheme in February it’s proved to be very positive in cutting down on waste and having a benefit to the environment.
He said: “Could we bring this initiative to another level as a county council? Can we approach the provider of the scheme and ask the company to offer this scheme in schools? By doing so, it would be a great education tool and a great way of recycling. It could also be a revenue stream for schools.”
Cllr James Kelly supported the motion.
He said: “I know that GAA groups and clubs are using the scheme. We see it every day, young lads going with plastic bag full of bottles and cans over their shoulders heading off to get a few bob from them. It’s a good scheme and it’s taking a lot of plastic out of the environment, which it’s all about.
“Let the council contact the company to see if it is something that they would get involved with. I think it’s a great idea.”
Cllr John Joe Fennelly said: “I think it’s a fantastic scheme and agree that recycling bins for the bottles and cans could be provided in the schools around Laois.”
Cllr Mulligan said that the company already provides and collects bins when they are full from a few clubs that are already involved in the scheme in the county.
