Josepha Madigan (Dublin Rathdown, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

Rhododendron clearance continued throughout 2018 at Glenveagh National Park. There are many different invasive species but approximately €600,000 was allocated for nationwide rhododendron clearance in 2018. Since 2011, the Department has invested approximately €1.25 million in tackling rhododendron clearance, specifically in Killarney National Park. Approximately €300,000 was spent in 2017, with €110,000 spent on clearing rhododendron in Glenveagh National Park.

Doubling the previous funding amount to tackle invasive species is an important commitment. It is important that we do everything we can to mitigate the problem because they can take over lakes and ponds and ruin natural ecosystems and habitats.

Reference was made to the head of the crusader. It is good and we are happy that it has been found. In the recovery of the archaeological remains taken from the church the National Museum of Ireland, as the principal organisation with responsibility, assisted An Garda Síochána and provided advice, as required.

Funding for the Heritage Council has increased by 80% since 2012 under successive Fine Gael-led Governments. The appointment of heritage officers is a matter, in the first instance, for the local authorities, but such officers are funded jointly by the Heritage Council. I approved the allocation of funding for the council to hire a biodiversity officer, something it has done. It has also recruited Ms Virginia Teehan as its new CEO. I met her last week.

Reference was made to the Grand Canal. I understand Waterways Ireland will look to extend the blue way to the River Shannon when funding permits. It is definitely within our horizon as something at which we should look.