The main purpose of the NLPMS since its establishment in 1999 is to generate, by means of surveys, reliable data to enable each local authority to accurately measure changes in the extent and composition of litter pollution in its area and so provide more effective litter management planning. Using a specially designed GIS application each local authority’s functional area is mapped and then surveyed annually using Litter Pollution Surveys and Litter Quantification Surveys. The data produced by the NLPMS surveys allow local authorities to gauge: • the extent and severity of litter pollution in each local authority area; • the types, most likely sources and causes of litter; • the changes in litter levels from location to location and over time; • the location of litter black-spots; and • the impact of new anti-litter measures. The system surveys to date have generated a considerable body of data on litter levels and the composition and causes of litter nationwide. The results show a pattern of gradual but steady improvement in litter levels across the country since 2002.

Approval Sought Approval is sought to proceed to engage consultants for the provision of the operation of the National Litter Pollution Monitoring System (NLPMS) from 1 April 2026 to 31 March 2028, with the possibility of a one-year extension the cost of which will be funded from the Circular Economy Fund. Background The main purpose of the NLPMS since its establishment in 1999 is to generate, by means of surveys, reliable data to enable each local authority to accurately measure changes in the extent and composition of litter pollution in its area and so provide more effective litter management planning. Using a specially designed GIS application each local authority’s functional area is mapped and then surveyed annually using Litter Pollution Surveys and Litter Quantification Surveys. The data produced by the NLPMS surveys allow local authorities to gauge: • the extent and severity of litter pollution in each local authority area; • the types, most likely sources and causes of litter; • the changes in litter levels from location to location and over time; • the location of litter black-spots; and • the impact of new anti-litter measures. The system surveys to date have generated a considerable body of data on litter levels and the composition and causes of litter nationwide. The results show a pattern of gradual but steady improvement in litter levels across the country since 2002. Scope of Work The aim is to appoint suitably qualified consultants to continue the development and delivery of the NLPMS and to oversee its implementation, in accordance with the terms of reference: • promote and encourage full local authority participation in System implementation; • collate, analyse and assess the litter quantification and pollution survey data received from local authorities, and report to each local authority on the assessment of its data; • submit a System Results report to the Department; • assess the potential to develop new litter management / abatement strategies and guidelines for local authorities, in consultation with the Department, to tackle major litter pollution problems identified by the local authority survey data; • carry out spot checks of local authority litter quantification and pollution survey results to ensure accuracy of data; • provide technical support to, and liaise regularly with, local authorities on the implementation and operation of the System; • assess / review the list of potential litter generators on an on-going basis, in light of local authority experiences with implementation of the System, and agree any proposed changes with the Department; • train local authority staff in System survey methodologies and other operational matters, as required by local authorities, the cost of which will be borne by the local authorities; • carry out System audits in selected local authorities; • prepare separate reports, other than those already specified in the Terms of Reference, in relation to any aspect of the successful tenderer’s activities, that may be so requested by the Department; and • project closure, including consideration of the most appropriate strategies for continuing system development and implementation in future years. Oversight of the NLPMS The Department’s role vis-á-vis the NLPMS is to: • manage the discharge of the contract and liaise with the tenderer appointed to operate the NLPMS on an on-going basis; and • agree and review the timetable for the work programme being undertaken by the successful tenderer. Tendering Process A two-year contract is on offer with an option to extend for an additional year. The estimated value of the contract for consultancy services is approximately €137,000 over the lifetime of the contract including a one-year extension. The formal tender process will be advertised on eTenders in line with National Guidelines- Below Threshold Procedure in line with the Public Procurement Guidelines for Goods and Services [Version 3, October 2023]. As per the national guidelines there is no minimum time limit for receipt of tenders, however Department procurement procedures recommend a minimum of 2 to 3 weeks. Additional time must be factored in for the evaluation process, the contract decision notice to issue and to allow the prerequisite standstill period (14 calendar days) to elapse before the formal contract can be finalised. It is intended to advertise the tender by 20 February 2026, which should enable the new contract to be in place by 31 March 2026. The requisite funding for this consultancy has been requested from subhead CE0207 of the 2026 Circular Economy Fund allocations which is a dedicated subhead for the National Litter Pollution Monitoring System. While funding has not yet been secured for this year, this is a long running programme and it is expected that Minister Dillon will approve the allocation. The Departmental “Consultancy Approval Procedures” confirm that approval of the Head of Function is required where