Maher surprised by lack of recycling in Paradise schools

By Mark Squibb

Councillor Tommy Maher is calling on more residents to recycle.
“Just for the public’s knowledge, 1.2 million pounds of household garbage goes to Robin Hood Bay, per month, out of our small town. That’s a huge number, at a cost of $50,000,” said Maher. “And only seven per cent of residents are recycling”
Maher’s concern extended to school age children as well.
The councillor recalled the Town hosted a number of students at the Double Ice Complex this past May for a special event in recognition of Municipal Awareness Week.
“To my disbelief actually, we had a little over 200 kids go through our booth, and, when asking the Grade 6 kids, ‘Do you recycle at school? their answer was ‘No,’ to drink bottles, pop bottles, and such, and I found that a little disappointing myself,” said Maher.
The councillor said students told him they didn’t recycle for fear the recyclables would begin to smell, and eventually attract flies.
“I think us as town council, there’s something that we may be able to do for the schools,” said Maher. “I don’t know if we could put a holding facility for their recyclables or maybe pick it up every few days. I don’t know, but I would like to see if the Town could do something.”
Council or staff did not discuss the matter further.