Call for plan to tackle Japanese Knotweed
LABOUR Party local area representative Joe Ryan has called for a co-ordinated plan to tackle the every-growing threat of Japanese Knotweed in Wexford.
Mr. Ryan said he has come across fresh outbreaks of the rapidly growing and highly invasive plant along Disillery Road where it is blocking light entering kitchens and taking over back gardens.
Japanese Knotweed is a non-native species introduced into Ireland in the 19th century. It spreads quickly underground and produces shoots that can penetrate cement or tarmac. Most household insurance policies do not allow claims for damage caused by knotweed.
Mr. Ryan, a biology teacher said the plant is widespread in Wexford and he warned people against taking matters into their own hands when it comes to cutting it back.
‘This plant is very resilient. Cutting it only encourages more growth and is guaranteed to add to the problem,’ he said, pointing out that Wexford County Council’s website contains advice on how to deal with it.
‘What is needed is a co-ordinated countywide approach to tackle it, whether it is on public or privately-owned lands’, said Mr. Ryan, adding that he recently contacted the County Council with a complaint and was surprised to discover there is no budget for combating the problem in the Wexford District other than where it is found on a tenant’s property.
He said the primary responsibility for habitats lies with the Department of Heritage and the Arts and not with County Councils which are responsible for housing and local government.
‘No single department seems to be in charge of eliminating the problem so it’s a case that everyone has responsibility but nobody takes charge and meanwhile the problem is worsening. This year, there seems to be little effort nationwide to deal with Japanese Knotweed except where it is found on a property belonging to a local authority tentant’ he said.
‘Because the weed can rapidly recover if not eliminated, spraying keeps the problem at bay and doesn’t eliminate it. The most effective time to spray the weed each year is August and September.’
Mr. Ryan called on the Minister for Heritage Heather Humphreys to take action by surveying the extent of the problem and formulating a plan to eliminate Japanese Knotweed nationally.