Members and some witnesses suspect the government has underestimated the funds necessary to run this program. For example, the department indicated that it has budgeted approximately $10,000 per depot for setup costs. The committee asked several witnesses whether they thought this amount would be adequate, and heard that the costs of setting up and running a depot may vary significantly from community to community depending on who runs it, the availability of space, existing equipment, utility costs and the hours of operation. In most cases, costs will probably exceed $10,000.

Members would also suggest that transportation and handling costs are another area where more analysis and discussion are needed. For example, Mr. Greg Rowe from Tri-R Recycling in Hay River identified the need for adequate handling fees to be paid to the processing centres and depots in order to ensure they are able to run viable operations. More discussion is needed with stakeholders about what if any transportation costs would be paid out of the environment fund.

The committee had concerns about whether the department would be able to enforce the regulations within the estimated budget. Although the Minister indicated only one new full-time position is planned, Members question whether it is realistic to expect existing field staff to enforce this program in addition to their other responsibilities. At minimum they will require training which could in itself be a substantial cost.