Council urged to act on invasive plant posing a danger to homes across Leitrim

An invasive plant species, Japanese Knotweed, is spreading across the county and is particularly widespread in Drumkeeran, a meeting of Leitrim County Council has heard.

Cllr Mary Bohan proposed that the Council urgently seek funding to tackle the spread of invasive plant species, especially Japanese Knotweed throughout the county, noting that the problem is particularly severe in Drumkeeran.

Japanese Knotweed, which destroys native plants, was introduced to Ireland in the 19th century, when it was considered an ‘exotic’ species. 

It can grow by a metre in less than a month and has the ability to break through concrete and tarmac.

“I don’t know if people are aware that it’s as bad as it is,” said Cllr Bohan. She informed elected members that the Biodiversity Officer had recently visited Drumkeeran to meet the Tidy Towns committee and highlighted the “significant amount” of Japanese Knotweed present in the area, including in some of the local authority housing estates.

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It was highlighted that this can pose a danger to houses. “I think it’s something we need to take very seriously. It’s a serious cause of concern right throughout the county,” added Cllr Bohan. Her motion was seconded by Cllr Gary Prior.

Director of Services for Finance and the Environment, Vincent Dwyer, responded to Cllr Bohan, stating that the removal of the plant is the responsibility of individual landowners on their own property, although the Council will provide advice on how to proceed.

“From a local authority standpoint, in the areas where we own the land or along public roads we would be involved, and it can take two or three years to eradicate it. Beyond that, it’s a matter for individual landowners,” he said.

A Council response noted that local budgets have been established in each Municipal District to address Knotweed growth along regional roads. 

This programme has proven effective in the treatment and eradication of Knotweed along road verges and ditches.

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The response explained that this scheme will continue, as effective treatment requires annual spraying for four years, usually carried out by outdoor staff during the autumn season.

“It is important to recognise that the cutting or inappropriate removal of Japanese Knotweed is illegal, under Regulation 49 of the European natural habitats directive,” the response concluded.