IRISH RESPONSE TO DEMARCHE ON THE EU BATTERY

UNCLAS DUBLIN 001821 SIPDIS E.O. 12958: N/A TAGS: EIND ETRD SENV EUN SUBJECT: IRISH RESPONSE TO DEMARCHE ON THE EU BATTERY DIRECTIVE REF: STATE 259043 ¶1. On December 17, Des Howard, Higher Executive Officer in the Waste Infrastructure and Regulation Section of the Department of the Environment and Local Government, responded to reftel queries on Ireland's views regarding the EU battery directive. A) What is Ireland's position on the ban of lead/cadmium/mercury? The Irish Government favors the proposed ban on cadmium, subject to exemptions for the cordless power tool industry. The Government favors the mercury and lead bans as proposed. B) Does Ireland have a collection system in place for batteries? Ireland's battery collection system is focused on automotive and industrial batteries. A collection system for portable (general appliance) batteries is still in the developmental stages. C) What is the position of your country on collection targets? Collection targets are currently being negotiated in Brussels, and Ireland can accept the Presidency compromise proposal as currently tabled. Although shorter lead times of up to one year for the second and third targets would be acceptable, Ireland would oppose any shortening of the period for the initial 20 percent target, due to the relatively underdeveloped state of battery collection/recycling in Ireland. D) What is the position of your country on the financing of collection? Financing should be "producer-driven," with take-back systems for automotive and industrial batteries. E) Has your country formally assessed the impact this directive will have on domestic appliance and battery manufacturers? Ireland has not conducted a formal cost/benefit analysis or scientific impact assessment of the directive. The Department of the Environment and Local Government, however, is considering the general implications of the directive. KENNY