70 firefighters tackle ‘significant’ Ballycastle gorse fires

Seventy firefighters are battling two gorse fires in Ballycastle described as “significant” by the Northern Ireland Fire &Rescue Service.

A total of 12 appliances are being used to try to bring the blazes under control.

The fires have broken out in the Altarichard Road and Islandboy Road areas.

It comes after an appeal by the Fire Service and Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs to be aware of the risks around gorse fires, particularly given the long spell of dry weather.

Environment Minister Edwin Poots said it was important not to place further strain on emergency services during the Covid-19 outbreak.

“A number of significant wildfire incidents have occurred over recent weeks which have threatened property and destroyed valuable habitats,” he said.

“Wildfires are rarely natural. They are almost always started either deliberately, or by reckless burning or disposal of flammable vegetation or waste material.

“Waste or litter might also contain glass, which can easily start a fire on a sunny day.”

Interim Chief Fire & Rescue Officer Michael Graham, added: “Thanks to our planning, the changes we have made to how we deliver our service, and the hard work of our people, we are well placed to continue protecting our community during the Covid-19 pandemic.

“However, it is important that the public work with us to not add any additional pressure on the emergency services during this time.

“We would therefore appeal to farmers to support us by not carrying out controlled burning and remind the public to exercise common sense in the countryside.”