John O'Mahony (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I thank the Minister of State for her reply. While I acknowledge initiatives are in place, there is a need for an overall plan and education on this matter. Japanese knotweed thrives on disturbance. People think they are sorting it out when they cut it back. That is why there needs to be education on managing it. If we are doing it in a half-hearted way, we are throwing good money away. We need co-operation and an overall plan. Otherwise, it is like trying to keep the tide out with a hayfork.

Will the Minister of State bring the points raised to the Minister's attention? It is important people know the dangers with the weed. There is a big gain to be made in tackling it but it needs to be done in a strategic and organised way. I urge that the Minister does that.