The threat posed to Ireland’s bee population by Asian hornets requires a coordinated national response, according to Social Democrats TD Jennifer Whitmore.
Deputy Whitmore, who is the party’s environment spokesperson, said:
“The recent successful removal of an Asian hornet nest in Cork is a positive development and a testament to the hard work of local beekeepers and National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) staff.
“The nest was located thanks to the efforts of a small group of beekeepers, including a retired teacher from Dungarvan, who monitored bait stations and worked closely with the NPWS to track the hornets.
“The Cork case has highlighted the limited field capacity of the NPWS, making collaboration with trained beekeepers and the public essential.
“Current law prohibits the release of alien species. While sound in principle, it unintentionally blocks the most effective nest-tracking method – tagging and then tracing hornets – which is used successfully in the UK. This barrier seriously hampers the work of beekeepers in Ireland.
“We need to legislate to allow for trained beekeepers to assist in ‘catch-mark-release-recapture’ operations for nest detection, with a formal licensing system to ensure there is proper training and oversight.
“There is no room for complacency, as there have also been reports of Asian hornets spotted in Cobh and possibly Dublin. This shows the threat is growing and will require a coordinated national response.
“We must move from being reactive to proactive. A national Asian hornet response plan is needed before we face a full-blown emergency.
“I am now calling on the government to fast-track a national plan, amend legislation to allow proven tracking methods, and empower beekeepers and citizen scientists to support early detection.”
September 12, 2025