Kerry County Council plans to increase the cost of a four-pack of Eco Sense bags by 20% to €12.
Corca Dhuibhne councillor Robert Brosnan spoke against the increase when it was announced by management at the recent 2026 budget meeting.
The pre-paid Eco Sense bags allow the public to recycle a full bag of mixed dry refuse at any Kerry Civic Amenity Site.
Director of finance at Kerry County Council, Angela McAllen said there are substantial costs in operating the recycling service.
Ms McAllen said new contracts came into effect on 1st November (2025) resulting in a 22% increase to the council’s costs.
She said under the polluter pays principle, those responsible for creating the rubbish, should bear the cost of cleanup.
When initially introduced, the bags cost €8 per four-pack; this rose to €10 in January 2023, but from January 2026 will cost €12.
Councillor Robert Brosnan said the €2 per pack increase penalises the very people doing the right thing.
He argued that Kerry County Council has issued fewer litter fines despite more illegal dumping in the county.
Cllr Brosnan said it would be better to issue and collect litter fines, than increase the cost of recycling.
Director of finance, Angela McAllen admitted it was “disappointing” to have to raise the price, but that contract prices for the council have gone up by 22%.
She said when the cost of Eco Sense bags was last increased, it followed a 43% increase in contract costs.
This is an executive function of council management meaning councillors don’t get a vote on this issue.