Minister of State for Gaeltacht Affairs and Natural Resources and TD for Galway West and Mayo South, Seán Kyne has today confirmed that he is working to ensure the continuation of the programme to tackle the invasive species affecting Lough Corrib.
Lagorosiphon Major – Curly Leaved Waterweed more commonly referred to as ‘African Pond Weed’ – is an aggressive, invasive plant species which was discovered in the Corrib over a decade ago.
The non-native plant can have serious and negative consequences on the environment, including fish stocks and native wildlife, as well as for tourism and marine-related and leisure activities.
“The threat of this invasive species to Galway’s environment was the first issue I raised on my election to the Dáil in 2011. Back then there was great uncertainty as to how this serious problem could be tackled.
“Thankfully, funding was secured through the co-operation of Galway County Council, the National Parks and Wildlife Service and Inland Fisheries Ireland. The work has also involved a Galway-based company, GeoMara.
“As Minister of State for Gaeltacht Affairs and Natural Resources this issue comes under my remit as does the State agency, Inland Fisheries Ireland. Recently, I have met with those working on the programme to remove and prevent the spread of the pond weed in Galway.
“I have also raised the programme with the Secretary General of the Department of Communications, Climate Action and Environment. Tackling this invasive species is a priority and, in advance of the expiration of the current programme, I am working to ensure that we build on the progress made to date,” he concluded.
