Advertisement

We need your help now

Support from readers like you keeps The Journal open.

You are visiting us because we have something you value. Independent, unbiased news that tells the truth. Advertising revenue goes some way to support our mission, but this year it has not been enough.

If you've seen value in our reporting, please contribute what you can, so we can continue to produce accurate and meaningful journalism. For everyone who needs it.

Men's Sheds volunteers descend on Killarney National Park to fight invading rhododendrons

Kerry TD Michael Healy Rae previously called for the army to be sent in to deal with the invasive plant.

mens-1 Irish Men's Sheds Association Irish Men's Sheds Association

VOLUNTEERS FROM MEN’S Sheds around Ireland have descended on Killarney National Park to help tackle the rampant rhododendron problem.

Rhododendron ponticum was introduced to Ireland as a form of hunting cover in the late 19th century. It thrives in the temperate, humid climate and poses a significant threat to Irish woodlands by starving native flora of light and food and preventing regrowth.

It has taken firmly taken root in the national park and efforts to manage it have been ongoing for more than 30 years.

mens-5 Irish Men's Sheds Association Irish Men's Sheds Association

Last year Kerry TD Michael Healy-Rae said the rhododendron problem in the park was so bad that the army should be sent in to root out the invasive species.

Addressing Minister Michael Ring in the Dáil he said:

The rhododendrons are taking over completely, despite efforts to cut them… The rhododendron situation has gotten so bad in Killarney National Park, minister, that nothing short of calling in the army would put it right.

In response the minister said that €700,000 had been invested in combating rhododendrons in recent years.

For the second year in a row Men’s Sheds members from 23 sheds across Ireland have travelled to Kerry to help combat the pernicious plant. 

The 45 volunteers were trained to use the environmentally approved “snip and spray” by the National Parks and Wildlife Service.

Last year they cleared 60 acres of the park, and a similar target has been set for this year’s efforts.

“The lads in the sheds have been champing at the bit to get back to Killarney and get stuck into the rhododendron clearance. Last year’s event was one of the most enjoyable men’s sheds projects I can remember,” Barry Sheridan, Chief Executive Officer of the Irish Men’s Sheds Association, said.

mens-2 Irish Men's Sheds Association Irish Men's Sheds Association

“This year, we’ve members from Tyrone to Cork and everywhere in-between travelling to lend a hand”.

The park is a national treasure, and this project just shows what men’s sheds are about; putting your skills and experience at the disposal of the community. It’s also going to be a tremendous social occasion, a great chance for members from across the country to mix with one another.

Readers like you are keeping these stories free for everyone...
A mix of advertising and supporting contributions helps keep paywalls away from valuable information like this article. Over 5,000 readers like you have already stepped up and support us with a monthly payment or a once-off donation.

Author
Céimin Burke
View 44 comments
Close
44 Comments
This is YOUR comments community. Stay civil, stay constructive, stay on topic. Please familiarise yourself with our comments policy here before taking part.
Leave a Comment
    Submit a report
    Please help us understand how this comment violates our community guidelines.
    Thank you for the feedback
    Your feedback has been sent to our team for review.

    Leave a commentcancel

     
    JournalTv
    News in 60 seconds