The National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) has confirmed a recent sighting and capture of an Asian hornet in the Cork area marking a “biosecurity alert for Ireland”.
In a statement, the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage said the Asian hornet poses a “significant threat to biodiversity in Ireland as even a single nest can devastate honeybee populations”, but the discovery does not pose a significant public health risk.
“The sighting has triggered a Government-led response with the establishment of a new taskforce,” the statement said.
Minister of State for Nature, Heritage and Biodiversity Christopher O’Sullivan said hornets are a “threat to our native pollinators and our biodiversity”.
“We must take even a single sighting very seriously. NPWS responded quickly to this report, with a team of experts rapidly tasked to monitor and survey the area,” he said.
“One individual was captured and a co-ordinated response is now underway through a new cross government taskforce who will continue to monitor the situation.
“We are also very grateful for the support of beekeepers and their associations in this endeavour.”
Mr O’Sullivan said that early detection is key to prevent the establishment of this invasive species.
“I urge everyone to be vigilant and inform themselves so that they can recognise and report any sightings of the Asian hornet to help us contain this invasive species and protect our biodiversity.”