Anyone who puts the wrong materials in their recycling bins could be fined £100 as of 7 April 2008, through provisions introduced by the Waste (Amendment) (Northern Ireland) Order SI 2007/611. District councils are now able to introduce the fixed penalty fine for low-level waste receptacle offences. However they are not compelled to adopt the measures, but can decide individually if the legislation suits them specifically.
Previously all waste offenders had to be prosecuted through the courts, where they faced a fine of up to £1,000. Councils will also have the option to offer a discount for early payment. Environment Minister Arlene Foster said the legislation would offer better value for money. "The new powers offer a quicker, more flexible and more cost-effective alternative to expensive and time-consuming court prosecutions. They should also encourage higher recycling rates. I would stress that this legislation will not force individual councils to introduce fixed penalties - each council will be free to decide whether this system would suit its own local circumstances."
All councils, even those which do introduce this new enforcement system, will still be able to prosecute more serious offences through the courts.
