Carol Nolan (Laois-Offaly, Independent)
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674. To ask the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine if his attention has been drawn to the fact that a number of forests in various counties including in County Laois are experiencing heavy growth of an invasive species of cherry laurel; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22594/21]

Charlie McConalogue (Donegal, Fianna Fail)
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Cherry laurel is not officially listed as an invasive species by Invasive Species Ireland. While it may be present on a number of former estates, public parks or similar type land, it may have a positive effect in providing winter cover for birds and other wildlife, and as a wind break and thermal cover.

In areas where Laurel species are dominating canopy or understorey, an intervention and replacement with appropriate species may be warranted. Any such action is a matter for relevant landowners and removal should take place in line with best forest practice. In Woodland where cherry laurel is present, vigilance should be maintained for the presence of listed invasive species such as snow berry, Japanese Knotweed and Himalayan balsam.