6 March 2025

SDLP South Down MLA Colin McGrath has called for people to take greater care in the vicinity of the Mourne Mountains to end regular fires.

He was speaking after the latest major incident at the weekend.

South Down MLA Mr McGrath said:

“There are a number of reasons these fires start, from particular practices to careless visitors, but the consequences are significant. We are so lucky in this area to have such outstanding natural beauty on our doorsteps and I cannot understand why anyone would want to destroy that.

“Those responsible for this not only put the lives of our dedicated fire service staff at risk, they caused massive disruption for people living in this area – some of whom had to be evacuated from their homes – and caused serious destruction to the environment in the surrounding areas.

“We cannot allow these fires to become an annual threat to our homes, health and environment and if we continue to see fires of this magnitude I fear that someone will be seriously hurt or even worse. I would urge anyone engaging in this kind of activity to stop and think about the harm they are causing to the local area. Anyone with any information should come forward to police and we need to see severe punishments handed down to anyone involved in this to dissuade others in future.”