Michael Ring (Mayo, Fine Gael)
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273. To ask the Minister for Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht the advice and-or financial support available from her Department and the National Parks and Wildlife Service to address the growing problem with terrestrial invasive-alien species, such as Japanese knotweed and giant wild rhubarb, Gunnera, and their possible control in an area (details supplied) in County Mayo; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [9624/15]

Heather Humphreys (Cavan-Monaghan, Fine Gael)
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The National Parks and Wildlife Service of my Department worked with the Northern Ireland Environment Agency (NIEA) to fund and manage the Invasive Species Ireland Project since 2006. This initiative provides advice and guidance on the management of a range of invasive species, including the species referred to, which can negatively impact on the environment and on property on the island of Ireland.

Best Practice Management Guidelines for Japanese knotweed and giant/wild rhubarb have been published and can be accessed on the project website at . These guidelines provide practical advice to persons and organisations, including local authorities, on the removal and disposal of these species.

Control of invasive species is primarily the responsibility of landowners. My Department is involved in control of rhododendron and other species within National Parks. In general, however, my Department does not have the resources to provide funding for such work elsewhere.