COMHAIRLE CONTAE ÁTHA CLIATH THEAS
SOUTH DUBLIN COUNTY COUNCIL

MEETING OF TALLAGHT AREA COMMITTEE (1)

Monday, January 28, 2013

QUESTION NO.7

QUESTION: Councillor D. Looney

"To ask the Manager to report on the infestation of Japanese knotweed in the area under the remit of this Committee, in particular in Tymon Park, where it has been noted near the Greenpark end of the park for some time?"

REPLY:

Japanese Knotweed (Fallopia japonica) is a major problem alien species that has spread throughout Ireland particularly in the last ten years.  It originated from South East Asia.  It is a significant problem in the Dublin area and in the parks of South Dublin and in private property also.  It is a species that poses significant threats to native flora and fauna.

However, the control and eradication of it is problematic since the roots grow to significant depths.  This means that its eradication is dependent on continually repeating the physical and chemical spraying regime over a number of years.

The Council’s Heritage Officer is working with the Parks Section in the effort to control this plant throughout the parks and open spaces of South Dublin.