Kildare Co Council vows to wipe out dangerous weed

Kildare Co Council has assured people that it will remove a dangerous weed in the Newbridge and Kildare area if its officials are alerted.

Giant Hogweed, which can grow to 4m in height, is harmful to humans as its sap can cause skin blisters or long-lasting scars, particularly in children.

It can also cause blindness in cases if it comes in contact with eyes.

Cllr Joanne Pender has asked Council officials if they were aware or had identified any occurrences of Giant Hogweed in the local municipal area.

The politician also queried what measures would be used to eradicate it and to make people aware of it.

What is Giant Hogweed?

Giant Hogweed, which is part of the carrot family, is an invasive plant.

It is mostly found along footpaths and riverbanks though it also grows in places like parks, cemeteries and wasteland.

Its sap contains toxic chemicals which react with light when in contact with human skin, causing blistering within 48 hours.

Effectively it prevents the skin from protecting itself from sunlight, which can lead to severe burns and scarring.