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12 Feb 2026
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12 Feb 2026
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Ingestion is known to cause vomiting, seizures and respiratory failure which can be fatal
Meath County Council have issued a stark warning to the public after a possible sighting of a dangerous plant on the coast.
The council confirmed that they have received reports of Hemlock Water Dropwort washing up on both Bettystown Beach and Laytown Beach.
The poisonous plant is highly toxic to humans and animals. Just brushing against it can irritate the skin and ingesting the plant, even in small amounts, can be severely dangerous. Ingestion is known to cause vomiting, seizures and respiratory failure. It can be fatal.
READ MORE: Snow on the way as entire country hit with Met Éireann weather warning for cold snap
Hemlock Water Dropwort, which is also widely known as Dead Man's Fingers, can look like parsnips and every part of the plant is toxic, particularly its roots and seeds.
There is no antidote or cure for hemlock poisoning.
A spokesperson for Meath County Council said on social media, "With recent high tides, winds and swollen rivers, it’s likely these plants were uprooted from their usual habitats along the banks of our waterways and shoreline, so please stay alert on your coastal walks. Please continue to enjoy our beaches but stay safe and stay aware!"
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