Minister of State for Heritage, Malcom Noonan T.D., today (Tuesday, April 13) announced a funding allocation of €500,000 towards clearance of the invasive species Rhododendron ponticum in Connemara National Park. It is to be spent over the next 2 years and will create employment opportunities within the National Park.
In making the announcement the Minister commented:
“Removing invasive species is challenging and labour-intensive work, but it’s critically important for the health of our ecosystems. I’m really pleased to be announcing this funding for Connemara, which will create rural employment over the next two years to help manage and eradicate Rhododendron across 300 hectares of heath and blanket bog within the National Park.”
In adhering to public procurement guidelines, the Rhododendron clearance projects will be advertised by way of e-tenders. Contractors are invited to submit a response to the tender request and have their submissions considered as part of this major project. It is envisaged to have this tender published, contracts signed and works commenced by Q4 of 2021. This news has been welcomed by many local organisations.
John Sweeney, President of Connemara Chamber of Commerce and Karen Mannion, CEO of FORUM Connemara (who are working with the National Parks as neighbours on a range of agri-environmental initiatives) both welcomed the news saying:
“We are aware that similar work in 2020 provided employment to eight locals through the Farm Relief Service. It is tremendous to see this positive conservation work ongoing within the National Park, which is of significant benefit to both biodiversity and the community. We look forward with anticipation to the delivery of this project, which will further enhance Connemara as a location to visit and as a place to live.”
Dr. Kevin Heanue, Chairman of the Board of Directors of Connemara West welcomed the news of the significant funding to combat Rhododendron within Connemara National Park.
“The fight against invasive species like Rhododendron is an ongoing challenge in Connemara and it is great to see this work continuing. The National Park is a significant local asset not only in terms of the natural environment but also in terms of the contribution it makes to peoples’ quality of life. Connemara West looks forward to working with the National Parks and Wildlife Service as they roll out their other planned ambitious initiatives in Connemara.”
Minister Noonan concluded by saying:
“Rhododendron is an extremely invasive species. It is one of the biggest threats to peatlands in the West of Ireland and can colonise habitats, causing significant problems unless properly managed. Under Regulation 27, EC (Birds and Natural Habitats) Regulations 2011, the NPWS strives to prevent deterioration of blanket bogs and heaths in the National Park and in the Twelve Bens / Garraun Complex SAC 2031. I am delighted that the National Parks and Wildlife Service are using this funding to alleviate a significant pressure on the habitat and support the natural ecological function of this important site.”
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