The Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine (DAFM) has confirmed a concerning increase in the number of new outbreaks of fireblight (Erwinia amylovora) in 2024. So far this year, there have been 60 new outbreaks of fireblight, a bacterial disease that poses a threat to various plant species including hawthorn, cotoneaster, apple, pear, and rowan. Hedgerows Ireland highlighted that fireblight is a destructive disease with no known cure, necessitating the removal of affected trees. Symptoms of fireblight include the wilting of shoots and leaves, the formation of cankers, and the presence of bacterial ooze. This disease is particularly concerning as it can enter through latent infections on imported plants and thrives in Ireland’s temperate climate.
The figures from DAFM reveal that in 2024, over 1.4 million crataegus (hawthorn/whitethorn) plants have been imported into Ireland from other EU countries. Specifically, by the end of July 2024, a total of 1,470,312 crataegus plants had been brought into the country. The influx of these plants raises concerns about the potential spread of fireblight, as the disease can easily hitch a ride on imported vegetation.
Minister Charlie McConalogue has indicated that the DAFM will be evaluating whether Ireland should maintain its protected zone status in relation to fireblight. This decision will be based on the findings of the 2024 annual plant health surveillance plan. Being a protected zone for fireblight implies that the disease is not currently present in Ireland but is either endemic to certain EU regions or has invaded other EU member states. Given the ongoing outbreaks of fireblight, the status of Ireland as a protected zone is subject to review. Minister McConalogue stated, “Upon completion of the 2024 annual plant health surveillance plan, my department will assess the surveillance results and determine whether Ireland should retain its protected zone status regarding fireblight.” This announcement followed a query from Deputy Marc Ó Cathasaigh regarding potential plans to relinquish the protected zone status.
Under EU regulations, there are strict protocols for the surveillance of plant pests and the necessary actions to be taken upon confirming the presence of specific pests like fireblight. The maintenance of protected zones is a crucial aspect of plant health protection in the EU. Minister McConalogue emphasized the importance of adhering to these regulations to safeguard Ireland’s agriculture and environment from the threats posed by invasive plant diseases. The decision on Ireland’s protected zone status for fireblight will be made following a thorough assessment of the surveillance data and in compliance with EU guidelines.
