Warning as toxic plant found on Co Meath beaches

Louise Walsh

A warning has been sounded after reported sightings of a potentially lethal plant along the beaches of Co Meath.

Hemlock water dropwort, the toxic plant also known as dead man's fingers, can kill humans and animals within an hour.

Outdoor adventure expert Max Cody is warning people to be vigilant while using the beaches with children and pets after he spotted the parsnip-like roots washed up on the sands of Laytown and Bettystown on Tuesday afternoon.

Cody runs a local tour company, Fourshore Adventures, and spends a lot of time on the beach. After being away for a few days, he spotted the plant on his return.

Cody also works in forest schools where he teaches about toxic plants.

"The south-easterly winds and super high tides recently have probably uprooted and washed these plants here, possibly from the nearby Delvin, Nanny and Boyne rivers," he said.

"It is definitely the plant and, as far as I know, there is no known antidote for it.

"Even to touch the leaves, it can cause blisters but if ingested, it can attack the nervous system and cause death within hours.

"So please keep pets and children away from these plants."

Meath County Council has been contacted for comment.