Vol. 573 No. 4
203 Mr. Sargent asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food if giant hogweed will be added to the list of plants outlawed as noxious weeds in legislation due to the permanent damage and scarring it can inflict on people and the ongoing spread of this hazardous plant by natural means. [25810/03]
The legislation which we have in place dealing with noxious weeds under the Noxious Weeds Act 1936 was introduced to deal with specific weeds which posed a serious threat to farm productivity. The giant hogweed does not fall into this category. I am, of course, aware of the possible dangers to the public associated with physical contact with the giant hogweed plant. I believe the dangers posed are best addressed through public awareness measures taken to alert the public to the dangers involved in handling this plant. Such measures have in the past been put in place by the Department of Health and Children.
