Cockroaches are becoming a “very big problem in Ireland,” a leading pest controller has warned.

This follows the closure of Boba Bar on Parnell Street in Dublin in July after food safety inspectors discovered a cockroach infestation throughout the premises.

Cockroaches are mainly confined to urban areas in Ireland, with the most common species being the German Cockroach, Oriental Cockroach and American Cockroach.

Speaking on Moncrieff today, Brendan Higgins from Central Pest Control said infestations are increasingly common.

“Cockroaches are a very big problem in Ireland, particularly in city centre areas,” he said.

“The biggest problems with cockroaches are the diseases they carry, the damage they cause and the fear they instil in people.

“We have seen an increase in cockroach-related closure orders, not only in Dublin but in other cities and towns across Ireland.

“It’s a significant problem that needs urgent attention and it’s good to see the Food Safety Authority taking action.”

Cockroach hotspots

Mr Higgins explained that cockroaches are attracted to everyday kitchen essentials.

“All the goodies are in the microwave, the toaster, behind the milk dispenser,” he said.

“They’re looking for warmth, heat, and harbouring zones.

“The female cockroach lays an egg case called the ootheca, which can contain 35 to 40 eggs and it’s about the size of a sweetcorn kernel.

“The German Cockroach, a common species here, will hold her egg case until the last minute and might leave it in the back of the microwave due to the warmth and the presence of electrics and the motor."

Cockroaches.

He said the best approach to tackling an infestation is to locate it.

“The initial approach is crucial; then, you monitor them 24/7 using what we call cockroach boards,” he said.

“You come back seven days later to check their activity, which helps determine if there are males, females or eggs present.

“Then, you implement a pest control system to manage the infestation.”

Dublin's pest issues

Mr Higgins noted that Dublin’s pest issues have diversified in recent years.

“Everything has changed; even foxes have come closer to home,” he said.

“Seagulls, herrings and grey squirrels have also moved closer to residential areas.

However, our bread and butter are still rats and mice - they’re always at the top of the list.”

The diseases cockroaches can carry include salmonella, cholera and leprosy.

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