Irish Environment Minister Impressed

After two days of tours and meetings on Nova Scotia’s system of recycling and composting, visiting Irish Environment Minister Noel Dempsey says this province’s waste-management industry is a lead his country could follow.

And Mr. Dempsey said there will be opportunities in Ireland for Nova Scotia companies as the Irish put in place a new solid-waste management structure. Approximately one billion Irish pounds ($1.8 billion Cdn) have been allocated for the project over the next six years.

"Our aim is to get the best possible technology,” Mr. Dempsey said as his trip wound up. “If it comes from Nova Scotia, it will be as welcome as if coming from Ireland itself."

Minster Dempsey said he was in Nova Scotia because this province is recognized as one of the most progressive recyclers and composters anywhere. He said his trip has proved that to him.

Environment and Labour Minister David Morse said he was pleased to meet with Mr. Dempsey to promote Nova Scotia’s achievements in becoming North America’s leader in recycling and composting.

Mr. Dempsey also met with Halifax Mayor Peter Kelly, Lunenburg Mayor Lawrence Mawhinney and some private-sector consultants. He toured several waste-management facilities.

He foresaw further contact with Nova Scotia business and government as the Irish try to emulate what has happened here.

His trip was co-ordinated through the Department of Environment and Labour.