COMHAIRLE CONTAE ÁTHA CLIATH THEAS
SOUTH DUBLIN COUNTY COUNCIL

MEETING OF SOUTH DUBLIN COUNTY COUNCIL

Monday, September 14, 2026

QUESTION NO.1

QUESTION: Councillor W. Carey

To ask the Chief Executive for a report on the current extent of the invasive plant species rhododendron ponticum within the county, including the locations affected, any significant changes in its spread in recent years, areas of particular concern, the measures being undertaken to control or eradicate the species, and the effectiveness of these measures to date.

REPLY:

Rhododendron ponticum is an invasive, non-native evergreen shrub found in many parts of Ireland, including the Dublin region. It is commonly found in woodlands, old estates and upland areas such as the Dublin Mountains. If left unmanaged, it can spread quickly, crowd out native plants and reduce biodiversity.

There are currently no known records of Rhododendron ponticum on lands managed by South Dublin County Council's Parks and Public Realm section.

The National Biodiversity Data Centre's mapping website (https://maps.biodiversityireland.ie/) provides publicly available information on species recorded throughout Ireland. Based on the records currently available, the known occurrences of Rhododendron ponticum within the South Dublin County Council administrative area are located in the Glenasmole area, specifically on private lands near the Upper and Lower Bohernabreena Reservoirs.

Under the European Communities (Birds and Natural Habitats) Regulations 2011, responsibility for managing invasive alien species rests with the landowner. As the recorded occurrences are on private lands, responsibility for their management lies with the relevant landowners.

The Council will continue to monitor invasive species on lands under its management and take appropriate action where necessary.