Heydon: 'Landowners need to be cognisant of risk of wildfires'
The Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine, Martin Heydon has said that increased temperatures in the coming days brings an "increased risk" of wild fires.
Speaking in the Seanad yesterday (July 9), Minister Heydon highlighted that landowners need to be "cognisant" of the risk of wildfires and uncontrolled burning.
Fine Gael Senator, Cathal Byrne told the minister that "the feeling in farming communities" is that the restrictions in place are "too onerous", and that there is not clear communication from the National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS).
Senator Byrne said: "The key issue is that there is a feeling in farming communities that the restrictions in place to control and restrict the controlled burning of scrubland on our mountain ranges, particularly in areas grazed by sheep, are too onerous and that there is not clear communication from the NPWS about when the burning can take place and what exactly can be incorporated.
"This is an opportunity to bring clarity to the situation and confirm what exactly the position is as regards controlled burning. Is it possible for local farmers, particularly in mountain commonage areas, to engage in it?" Senator Byrne asked.
Minister Heydon noted that the management of uplands and mountain grazing comes with "unique challenges".
He explained: "I fully appreciate that the mechanical methods of managing vegetation on low land may not be as practical an option for any upland areas where tractors cannot travel to top or mulch strong vegetation.
"Controlled burning therefore has a role to play as part of an overall land management package and as part of a toolbox for wildfire prevention."
"However, burning of any lands needs to be done in the correct manner and in full compliance with national legislation," Minister Heydon added.
According to the minister, this year (2025) the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine (DAFM) has issued seven fire danger notices in advance of high-risk weather phases.
He outlined that these notices issue guidance based on weather conditions, and that they also give clear information to the general public and forest visitors.
Minister Heydon also highlighted that controlled burning carried out at the correct time of the year, in suitable conditions, and in a responsible manner has a role to play. However, he noted that extreme care, planning, and preparation are needed.
He said: "Irresponsible use of fire poses risks to life, property and habitats. I encourage farmers in upland areas who are struggling to maintain their lands and fear that a build of vegetation can lead to an increased risk of wildfire to explore alternative means of control with their agricultural adviser.
"As with all lands, it is important that the maintenance activities employed by the farmer are designed with the local conditions in mind to ensure the best outcomes for the lands and take account of all the relevant regulatory requirements."
"While landowners need to be cognisant of the risk of wildfires and uncontrolled burning, I emphasise the important role members of the public also have in reducing the danger by ensuring they always take care when out in upland areas that are susceptible to wildfires," the minister added.
Minister Heydon called for visitors to rural areas to behave responsibly in relation to wildfires and fire risks and report fires promptly to emergency services where they see fires in the countryside.
