Bryson Recycling collection delays in four Northern Ireland council areas partly due to 'unprecedented illness' of staff
Recycling collection delays across four Northern Ireland council areas have been partly caused by “unprecedented” levels of staff illness, it’s been revealed.
That is according to the company responsible, Bryson Recycling, after concerns were raised by councillors in one of the affected areas.
Lisburn and Castlereagh City Council (LCCC) elected members also highlighted ratepayers’ frustrations.
Castlereagh East DUP Alderman, Sharon Skillen said: ”Residents come to you when their bins are not collected, that is what they pay their rates for. When will it be decided on co-mingled or separated recycling, because a lot of people are asking?”
Castlereagh South Alliance councillor, Martin McKeever said: “Residents’ patience is wearing thin.”
Downshire East UUP Alderman James Baird said: “Are the delays anything to do with Antrim and Newtownabbey replacing their old blue bins with the new multi boxes?”
A council officer responded: “I understand that it is an operational problem with Bryson and that it has nothing to do with the new bin system at Antrim and Newtownabbey.
"We are still waiting on the Stormont Assembly to respond to the DEARA consultation on recycling future in Northern Ireland, which has delayed our own kerbside collection plans.”
The Local Democracy Reporting Service (LDRS) contacted Byrson Recycling.
A spokesperson said: “Bryson Recycling provides recycling collection services to approximately 160,000 households on behalf of Lisburn and Castlereagh City Council, Belfast City Council, Mid and East Antrim Borough Council and Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough Council.
"Delays have occurred on some collection rounds across all the council areas where we operate our collection service.
"Delays are being experienced due to staff shortages resulting from unprecedented levels of sickness and a national shortage of drivers. We are taking all necessary steps to resolve this issue as quickly as possible.”
The spokesperson added: “Our teams have been working exceptionally hard to ensure household recycling collections continue, including undertaking evening and weekend shifts to maintain service delivery.
"Bryson aims to complete all collections within 24 hours of normal collection day. We have also placed a strong emphasis on recruitment to ensure we have the right staffing levels to support the service effectively.”