Japanese knotweed was first introduced to Ireland over 100 years ago. It forms dense thickets along roadsides, waste-grounds and waterways, reproduces by vegetative means and is difficult to kill off once it becomes established. This plant is included among the list of the 100 most invasive alien species of the world. The National Parks and Wildlife Service of my Department has been working with the Northern Ireland Environment Agency to fund and manage the Invasive Species Ireland Project since 2006. This initiative provides advice and guidance on the management of a range of invasive species, including the species referred to, which can negatively impact on the environment and on property on the island of Ireland.
Best Practice Management Guidelines for the species in question have been published and can be accessed on the project website at www.invasivespeciesireland.com. These guidelines provide practical advice to persons and organisations, including local authorities, on the removal and disposal of Japanese Knotweed. When dealing with Japanese Knotweed, it is critical to ensure that any viable rhizomes, the main means by which the plant spreads, are not given the chance to escape into the wider environment. I should also point out that the National Roads Authority have produced Guidelines, which can assist local authorities, on “The Management of Noxious Weeds and Non-Native Invasive Plant Species on National Roads” which includes a section on the treatment of Japanese Knotweed.
The European Communities (Birds and Natural Habitats) Regulations 2011 includes provisions in relation to controlling the possession and dispersal of ecologically harmful and invasive species of animals and plants, including Japanese Knotweed. Regulation 50 of the Regulations, which includes provisions relating to the banning for sale of invasive species listed in the Schedule to the Regulations, is not yet in effect. It is necessary for my Department to carry out risk assessments on those invasive species which are subject to trade before I can bring this element of the Regulations into force.
