The government was yesterday presented with the anticipated report by the Eco-Contribution Commission, set up in October to review the implementation and functioning of the eco taxes announced by the government during the budget and earlier in 2004.

The document was presented to Prime Minister Lawrence Gonzi, Environment Minister George Pullicino, Competitiveness Minister Censu Galea and Parliamentary Secretary Tonio Borg.

The details of the chunky report have not been revealed yet. However, commission chairman Patrick Catania explained that the report is roughly split in two parts: an analysis of the tax, its implementation and effect on society as well as the economy along with a section for proposals and waste collection schemes.

With the introduction of the eco-contribution system, the government sought to foster a change in culture which would ensure a leap in quality in the sector. Dr Gonzi said the government is committed towards every aspect of this sector but recognises that waste management is one of the biggest challenges facing modern states, particularly small states like Malta.

Contrary to widespread perception, the biggest challenge does not lie in collecting waste but rather in what to do with the waste once it is collected.

The government is tackling this as well as other issues and the report presented by the commission.

“I am informed that the commission has worked very hard on this report, meeting at least twice weekly to discuss it. I also believe that the process has led to the creation of a separate working committee for beverage producers given the particular nature of their business,” he added.

Concluding, Dr Gonzi said he was satisfied by the fact that the report had been presented and looked forward to review the proposals made by the commission.