07 November 2024
Views wanted on proposed changes to Noxious Weeds legislation
The views of farmers, citizens and stakeholders have been sought as part of a public consultation on proposed changes to legislation under the Noxious Weeds Act, 1936, which proposes the addition of blackgrass to the list of controlled weeds.
Other proposals include the retention of ragwort and wild oat as noxious weeds, whilst the limiting of controls to certain species of thistle and dock, and the removal of common barberry and male wild hop.
The consultation, announced by the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine, Charlie McConalogue T.D, will include the repeal of existing Statutory Instruments and replacing them with a new Statutory Instrument to provide for new, additional inclusions under the noxious weeds legislation.
Highlighting the importance of engaging with stakeholders and the public and collecting their views, Minister McConalogue said: “It is timely that this legislation is reviewed to ensure that the treatment of noxious weeds reflects modern practices and current challenges, including threats such as blackgrass.”
The Minister further commented: “In addition, the proposed changes include enforcement guidance, which will help raise awareness of the importance of biodiversity and ensure controls are restricted to where there is a threat to agricultural land.”
Submissions
The consultation process will be open for a four-week period from 1st November 2024 to 30th November 2024. Written submissions should be sent by email to: NWconsultation@agriculture.gov.ie with reference to “Noxious Weeds” in the subject line.
All submissions should include a short summary of not more than 300 words setting out the main points therein. Submissions from organisations or groups should include a brief background on the membership, aims and objectives of that organisation or group. All written feedback to the proposal should be submitted by 4.00pm on 30th November 2024. Any submissions received after this deadline will not be taken into consideration.
Teagasc has recently provided farmers with a new resource on managing grass weeds, which includes detailed information on blackgrass. Access the new and improved Grass Weeds webpage here.