‘Jail arsonists’ call as gorse fires spread in mountain range

The police and fire service in Northern Ireland have warned hill walkers and holiday-makers to avoid the area as they tackle a string of blazes.

Firefighters reported seeing 40ft high flames at the height of the emergency and fear the fires could spread again.

While there were no reports of injuries, the emergency services warned the public to avoid walking or camping in the mountain range that runs along the Co Down coast.

But after officials said they believed some of the fires were set deliberately, there was a call for the authorities to come down hard on offenders.

DUP South Down Assembly candidate Jim Wells said he visited fire and rescue and ambulance staff dealing with the large gorse fire and said anyone found guilty of arson should face a custodial sentence.

“I understand that seven fire tenders and numerous ambulance and rescue vehicles have been deployed to fight the large moorland fire on Slieve Binnian,” he said.

“A very large area of commercial forestry has been destroyed and huge damage done to our wildlife habitat.

He added: “Recent information provided by the Health and Public Safety Minister has confirmed that the vast majority of gorse fires are started deliberately, costing taxpayers millions of pounds every year.”

Mr Wells said the problem had increased significantly in recent years and action must be taken to deal with the rapidly deteriorating situation. “Those convicted of this type of arson must receive custodial sentences.”

Chief Fire Officer Peter Craig said the arsonists needed to realise their actions had consequences. The flames could spread faster than people could run. People could come down the mountains into a ferocious fire. “One moment of what they consider fun could end in a tragedy.”