Councillor appeals to public not to cut Japanese Knotweed

A Kerry county councillor is appealing to the public not to cut back Japanese Knotweed.

The invasive plant needs to be specially treated to remove it.

Fianna Fáil Cllr Jimmy Moloney said he was aware of areas along the River Feale where Japanese Knotweed had been cut, despite warning signs erected by the council.

He said he is aware that it is time consuming and costly to eradicate the plant but cutting simply spreads it and a national plan is needed to tackle the issue.

Kerry County Council says an invasive alien species register is maintained for the road network in the Listowel MD.

The council says locations identified are scheduled for treatment.