Major incident declared at Mourne Mountains
A large gorse fire started at Slieve Donard yesterday
The Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Service has now declared a major incident at the Mourne Mountains.
It comes as more than 70 firefighters continue to battle a huge gorse fire at Slieve Donard, which first started yesterday.
It’s being described as one of the most challenging gorse fires they've ever dealt with.
The Irish Air Corps helicopter has now been drafted in to help, along with the Coastguard and other agencies.
Assistant Chief Fire & Rescue Officer Aidan Jennings said, “This is undoubtedly one of the most challenging gorse fires Firefighters have ever had to deal with. It’s really devastating to see an incident of this scale. The safety and welfare of our Firefighters is my key priority.”
“Our Firefighters are working in intense conditions, in challenging terrain and I commend them for the valiant efforts to date.”
“We are working extremely closely with our partner agencies both at the scene and from our Command Room. This includes the PSNI, the Coastguard, Mourne Rescue Team, the Forestry Service, National Trust, NIEA and Sky Watch Patrol.”
“We thank them for their invaluable support. We have also been liaising with Minister Swann, who is responsible for NIFRS, and we thank him for his support also. All efforts, at a multi-agency level, are being made to bring this fire under control.”
“I am asking the public to help us help them at this time. Please follow the advice and stay away from the immediate area. I want to reassure everyone that we have put contingency measures in place and if you need us in an emergency we will respond. However, I am asking everyone to be extra fire aware at this time both in your home and in particular in the countryside.”
“The weather is providing a tinderbox landscape with conditions ripe for gorse fires to take hold anywhere in Northern Ireland. If you see a fire, report it immediately by dialling 999.”
“Please follow our countryside fire safety advice, act responsibly and stay safe. Both deliberate and accidental fires can cost lives and we are asking that the public heed fire safety advice to protect themselves and the countryside”
Meanwhile police have urged people to avoid Newcastle and the Mourne Mountains to give fire-fighters space to deal with the incident.
Health Minister Robin Swann is also appealing for people to avoid the area.
He said, “I’ve been shocked and deeply concerned to see the pictures of this devastating fire spreading across the Mournes. I have spoken to NIFRS Chief Fire and Rescue Officer Michael Graham to pay tribute to the crews.”
“Our firefighters are working hard in extremely challenging circumstances and I want to thank them on behalf of the community for their bravery and commitment. They are taking huge risks to bring the fire under control and make the area safe.”
“I would appeal to the public to help NIFRS in their vital work by avoiding Newcastle and the Mournes and allowing the crews to do their job safely and effectively. They must be able to get fire appliances, equipment and firefighters there as quickly as possible, so please do not drive to the area unnecessarily.”
“The public should also avoid gathering or walking in the area. The ongoing incident in the Mournes is not a tourist attraction nor a photo opportunity.
Spending long, tiring hours away from family is part of the sacrifice of our emergency services, who work to keep us all safe. Please help by giving our fire crews the space to do their job.”