Friday, 10 October 2025
Growing Wildfire Risks in Northern Ireland The Northern Ireland Executive has launched its first Wildfire Strategic Framework, marking a significant step in the effort to tackle the increasing threat of wildfires across the region. The framework, which runs from 2025 to 2030, outlines a comprehensive, cross-agency approach to preventing, preparing for, responding to, and recovering […]
The Northern Ireland Executive has launched its first Wildfire Strategic Framework, marking a significant step in the effort to tackle the increasing threat of wildfires across the region. The framework, which runs from 2025 to 2030, outlines a comprehensive, cross-agency approach to preventing, preparing for, responding to, and recovering from wildfires, as well as enforcing laws against those responsible for starting them.
Environment Minister Andrew Muir, speaking at the launch event in Peatlands Park, County Tyrone, delivered a clear warning to those deliberately setting wildfires:
“We’re coming after you… You need to know that the Police Service of Northern Ireland knows about this and that they’re going to be looking for prosecutions.”
The Strategic Framework focuses on five key pillars:
Prevention
Preparedness
Response
Recovery
Enforcement
It outlines 35 areas of development aimed at improving how Northern Ireland tackles wildfires. A dedicated Wildfire Action Plan is expected to follow in 2026.
The framework stresses the importance of public education, land management, and early warning systems to reduce the likelihood and impact of wildfires. Minister Muir highlighted that climate change and shifting weather patterns are making such fires more likely, especially in vulnerable upland and peatland areas.
“It’s only by the grace of God that no one’s been killed or seriously injured as a result of them,” said Muir, referencing the over 200 wildfires recorded in early April alone.
The Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Service (NIFRS) plays a central role in wildfire response. Area Commander Ryan Thompson described these fires as “long, arduous incidents” that take a toll on both personnel and resources. He stressed the impact wildfires have on:
Wildlife
Special habitats
Public health, due to smoke exposure
The framework aims to improve coordination among emergency services, government departments, NGOs, and community volunteers. Recovery efforts will also be prioritised, particularly in peatland areas like Slieve Beagh, which conservationists warn could take thousands of years to regenerate after fire damage.
The framework includes plans to review laws related to wildfires caused by malice or negligence, potentially strengthening enforcement powers.
PSNI Superintendent Chris Hamill confirmed that deliberate fire setting is a criminal offence and that offenders will face prosecution:
“Where it is found that a fire has been maliciously started, it will be fully investigated by police, and when identified, those responsible can expect to be arrested and brought before court.”
Justice Minister Naomi Long added that delivering on the framework is vital, especially as climate change is expected to increase the scale and frequency of such incidents.
The framework has been welcomed by multiple departments and agencies, including:
Department of Health
Department of Justice
NIFRS
PSNI
Assistant Chief Fire & Rescue Officer Marcus Wright praised the collaborative approach, noting the increasing strain wildfires place on frontline services:
“Dealing with the increasing number and scale of wildfires, which are largely preventable, adds significant physical demands on Firefighters and resources, and places strain on our Service..”
Although the Wildfire Strategic Framework is regionally focused, the issue of wildfires is a global environmental crisis. Northern Ireland is not alone in experiencing the increasing frequency and intensity of wildfires — this pattern is evident across Europe, North America, and Australia.
Scientists have long warned that climate change is creating ideal conditions for wildfires:
Hotter, drier summers with prolonged droughts.
Increased frequency of lightning storms, often sparking fires.
Greater fuel load due to warming-driven vegetation growth followed by drying.
As temperatures continue to rise, wildfire seasons are getting longer and more severe. The emissions from these fires further accelerate global warming, creating a dangerous feedback loop.
🔎 Insight: Even regions with historically mild climates, such as Northern Ireland, are now part of this global trend. The inclusion of wildfire prevention and response within broader climate strategies is no longer optional, but essential.
The Wildfire Strategic Framework is designed to support broader environmental goals, including:
Climate change adaptation
Peatland restoration
Biodiversity protection
Minister Muir emphasised the role of communities and landowners in tackling the issue, stating that a joined-up approach is essential to reduce risk, improve response, and aid recovery efforts.
Wildfires pose a growing threat to the people, wildlife, and landscapes of Northern Ireland. The 2025–2030 Strategic Framework provides a long-term, coordinated plan to reduce this risk and hold offenders accountable. With strong political backing and cross-agency cooperation, Northern Ireland is making it clear: deliberate or negligent fire-setting will not be tolerated, and enforcement is coming.
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