Dublin Fire Destroys 50 Croke Parks; NPWS Ramps Up Fire Readiness
A May 28 fire in south Co Dublin destroyed an area the size of 50 Croke Parks. The NPWS is enhancing wildfire readiness with aerial surveillance, increased staff, and stricter penalties for illegal burning. Despite a quadrupled budget and doubled staff, Ireland's habitats remain vulnerable, facing increased wildfire risks due to rising temperatures.
A fire near Glenasmole Valley, south Co Dublin, on May 28 destroyed an area equivalent to 50 Croke Parks before being extinguished 24 hours later by Dublin Fire Brigade, NPWS, and Coillte. This was the third fire this year in Wicklow Mountains National Park, breaking a two-year fire-free period, following two smaller, deliberate fires earlier.
Minister Christopher O’Sullivan stated the NPWS has “significantly ramped up” readiness for “illegal fires.” This includes increased aerial surveillance with helicopters and drones, operational nationwide from June to September, and more “boots on the ground” staff trained in wildfire response and night monitoring. O’Sullivan proposes increasing the €5,000 fine under the Wildlife Act, 1976, for illegal burning between March 1 and August 31, and disqualifying landowners from European grants if land is intentionally burned.
The NPWS budget for 2026 exceeds €100 million, nearly quadruple the €28.7 million in 2020, with staff doubling to 576. Despite this, Ireland ranks in the bottom 10% globally for biodiversity intactness, with 90% of habitats under “unfavourable” status. Experts emphasize public awareness campaigns and continued vigilance are crucial, as rising temperatures predict more frequent wildfire risks for Ireland, posing threats to habitats and human health.