A forest fire started last Monday night in Ballinamore forest, Co Leitrim, is the latest in a series of forest and wildfires throughout the country.

In all, 37 fires have destroyed wildlife and forest habitats in counties Wicklow, Cork, Leitrim, Mayo, Donegal and Sligo as well as a large tract of the Blackstair Mountains.

"Monday night’s fire is the latest incident that diverted vital emergency services away from focusing on the COVID-19 pandemic, putting unnecessary pressure on the emergency services and placing lives at risk," said Coillte national estates risks manager Mick Power.

Danger

The fire that burned a section of Coillte's Ballinamore forest was brought under control by Coillte staff and emergency services on Tuesday but the area is still at risk as fire has burned deep into the underlying peat.

If you spot a fire or smoke please contact your local fire services immediately

A Department of Agriculture Food and the Marine spokesperson reminded landowners that "it is illegal to burn growing vegetation on uncultivated land between 1 March and 31 August under the Wildlife Act". The spokesperson added that persons engaged in such illegal activity are liable to prosecution and could face fines, imprisonment and penalties to their farm payments.

Exercise

"Coillte forest car parks are closed according to COVID-19 guidelines, but our forests are open for those who live within 2km to take brief physical exercise," said Mick Power. "Those who do so should exercise extreme caution due to the fire warning in place."

"The public must avoid all outdoor use of fires and other open ignition sources such as cigarettes on forest lands. If you spot a fire or smoke please contact your local fire services immediately. The risk of damage to habitat and loss of wildlife and forests is particularly acute at this time of year."

The Department has issued a national high fire risk rating this week for all areas where hazardous fuels, such as dead grasses, shrub, heather and gorse, exist.