Dáil Éireann díospóireacht -
Tuesday, 7 Dec 1993

Vol. 436 No. 7

Written Answers. - Giant Hogweed Control Measures.

John Bruton

Ceist:

139 Mr. J. Bruton asked the Minister for the Environment if he has received a proposal from the Minister for Health in regard to measures that might be taken for the monitoring and control of the spread of giant hogweed in view of the danger this plant poses to children; the proposals, if any, that have been made to him by the Minister for Health; the action, if any, he proposes to take on the matter; the likely timescale and cost of these actions; and if legislation will be required to implement the recommendations.

Minister for the Environment (Mr. M. Smith)

The Minister for Health proposed that my Department should issue instructions to local authorities to eradicate the giant hogweed on land under their control. I have indicated my willingness to request local authorities to tackle the problem but, given the migratory nature of the plant, this should be part of a concerted effort by all landowners, both public and private, to eradicate it.