Northern Ireland Environment Agency launch consultation on wildfires

Wildfires have the capability to devastate farmland, wildlife and protected habitats, as well as the lives of people living and working in rural communities. In March we saw yet another wildfire on the Mournes. Their ability to start in rural locations, and under difficult conditions, is a threat that rural fire and rescue services have to be prepared for, along with partners.

Groups have been formed in high risk areas with great success, promoting cooperation and collaboration on wildfire issues. In this, gamekeepers and moorland managers have a particularly important role as they are frequently the first to see and report wildfires, and their specialist equipment is invaluable in helping put them out.

The Countryside Alliance has long called for a ban on the likes of sky lanterns as part of the fight to tackle wildfires but more needs to be done and the Northern Ireland Environment Agency has launched a consultation to look into the matter further.

The documents in the consultation outline five strategic goals for how the wildfire problem should be addressed. The document sets out six key areas to be addressed and developed as part of the 'Strategic Way Forward'. These include Governance, Engagement, Land Management, Response, Policy, Legislation and Enforcement and Evidence.

Countryside Alliance Ireland is encouraging members to take part in the consultation which can be found here.