Mourne Mountains Wildfires: 52 Firefighters Battle Blazes, Minister Calls it «Soul-Destroying»

Wildfires in the Mourne Mountains, Co Down, described as «soul-destroying» by Stormont agriculture minister Andrew Muir, required over 50 firefighters to battle blazes across multiple areas over the weekend, continuing into Sunday.

The Northern Ireland Fire & Rescue Service (NIFRS) confirmed crews were addressing wildland fires in the Ballagh Road, Newcastle, and Sandbank Road, Hilltown areas. The NIFRS urged hill walkers and locals to avoid the area due to fire risk, heavy smoke, and to support firefighting operations, requesting public responsibility in the countryside.

Minister Muir emphasized the significant impact, including potential risks to lives, community fear, and destroyed natural habitats. He thanked the NIFRS for their sustained response and urged adherence to calls to stay away. Sinn Féin MP Chris Hazzard praised the «incredible bravery and dedication» of the 52 firefighters and specialist teams, noting their efforts brought the Slievenaman Road blaze under control, though high risk remains.

Hazzard highlighted the devastation to hectares of vegetation in the «precious natural resource» and appealed to locals and visitors to avoid affected areas, especially with a yellow wildfire warning in place. He stressed the landscape's vulnerability and urged extreme caution to prevent further damage and risk to life.