I thank you, Sir, for permitting me to raise this matter on the Adjournment. The giant hogweed is probably the most dangerous plant growing in the country. Over the past six years it has caused serious suffering and each summer literally hundreds of people, particularly children, suffer severe skin burns as a result of coming into contact with the giant hogweed. Many have to be hospitalised and are left with serious and lasting skin injuries.
The giant hogweed is a tall wild plant resembling somewhat a very tall rhubarb plant. It is found mainly in low lying areas, particularly on the banks of streams and rivers. It leaves a residue which, in sunlight, burns the skin and children in particular are vulnerable. I have seen some appalling burns and many children have had to be hospitalised. In some cases, the child concerned was still suffering and had to undergo treatment three years after the injury.
I raised the issue on a number of occasions in the House by way of parliamentary question. Initially, I addressed my questions to the Minister for Agriculture, Food and Forestry as he is responsible for the control of weeds. Apparently, he does not believe that the matter can be tackled under the Noxious Weeds Act as it does not pose a threat to agriculture. It is strange that the law provides for the protection of animals under that Act and that a weed which poses a danger to humans is not covered.
When I tabled a question to the Minister for Health last week about the health implications, I was glad he acknowledged there was a serious problem and indicated that he was willing to take steps to deal with it. At this time of the year, as we enter the summer and when there is increased sunlight, most damage is done.
The Minister for Health, the Minister for the Environment and the Minister for Agriculture, Food and Forestry should co-ordinate their efforts to try to eradicate this weed. Considerable research has been carried out, by the botany department at Trinity College in particular, on which an eradication programme could be based. I understand that this weed has been eradicated in parts of Scotland. This matter should not be left to the local authorities or dealt with on an ad hoc basis. An effort should be made at national level to eradicate this dangerous weed, which has caused considerable pain and suffering to many people and which has the potential to do more damage. This matter should be dealt with as a matter of urgency and steps taken to eradicate it.
