Simon Coveney (Cork South Central, Fine Gael)

The Deputy's point is, to a certain extent, fair. While I will look at this issue again, I am keen on implementing the existing legislation rather than introducing a whole new set of regulations or primary legislation. A fine of €1,000, if enforced, will change habits. Dealing with the local authorities will, however, be more difficult because they are an arm of the State. Cutbacks in local authority budgets might have resulted in a lower level of maintenance of green areas and roadsides and consequently more weeds, particularly in public areas. I will ask my officials to look at this matter in more detail and come back to the Deputy on it.

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