Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 3 October 2012
180. Deputy Denis Naughten asked the Minister for Agriculture; Food and the Marine if he intends to ban the import of ash trees to stop the spread of the fungus Chalara fraxinea which would have a devastating impact on native ash trees;; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42198/12]
Amharc ar fhreagraChalara fraxinea is a relatively new harmful plant disease which affects ash trees. It is widespread throughout much of Europe, where it has caused significant damage in recent years. The disease is currently not regulated under the EU Plant Health Directive.
I am very concerned about this disease. The Forest Service of my Department has been carrying out surveys for the disease to determine its status in Ireland and has also been monitoring imports of ash plants, and wood products.
To date the disease has not yet been found in Ireland but it has been recently detected in Great Britain, largely associated with imported plant material.
At present there are no plans to impose an import ban. However, all measures available under EU and national legislation will be utilised to prevent the spread of the disease to Ireland. My Department is also currently working on this matter closely with the Northern Ireland and Great Britain authorities.
