The Wire

Ryde Council is facing community anger over installing computer monitoring tags in household waste bins without consulting residents. The Deputy Premier of New South Wales, John Watkins, noticed a tracking device in his family’s bin and brought it to the public’s attention. Ryde Council is maintaining the devices were installed to gather data on the weight of recycled waste compared to waste that will end up in landfill. Environmental groups are welcoming the council’s efforts to reduce household waste, But the Mayor Ryde Council, Mr Ivan Petch cannot explain why the community weren’t notified about the new monitoring technology. Councillor Petch spoke with The Wire.