The Noxious Weeds Act, 1936, is being examined in the context of an on-going review of legislation in this area.
The penalty for non-compliance with this legislation, £20 on conviction, remains unchanged since 1936. Additionally, payments relating to certain schemes administered by this Department are contingent on compliance with the control of noxious weeds.
No prosecutions were taken in the last three years. The Department has focused on promoting best practice with regard to the control and elimination of noxious weeds, through advertising campaigns and advisory services. Inspections have been undertaken in affected areas and compliance notices issued, as necessary. In all such instances, the landowner responsible took the appropriate measures to eliminate the weeds.