There were 1,584 fires in farm buildings between 2011 and 2018, figures from the Department of Housing show.

Cork had the highest number of fires, with fire services between the city and county council attending 211 in the eight-year period. It was followed by Westmeath with 113 fires in farm buildings and Wicklow with 112.

Firefighters were called to 104 fires in Meath farm buildings between 2011 and 2018.

Co Sligo has the least amount of farm building fires, with 18. The year 2011 was the worst for farm building fires, with 256 fires across the Republic of Ireland.

It was followed by 2018 with 234 fires and 2014, where firefighters fought 200 fires.

The data did not give the causes of the fires and 2019 figures are not available yet.

Prevention

Farmers are advised to identify any fire hazards in farm buildings. Such hazards include sources of ignition such as bad electrics, fuel sources such as straw and any dangerous substances such as fertiliser and poisons.

Landowners told to cease and desist all controlled burning

Firefighters battle blazes on Wicklow and Cork uplands

Map: over 1,500 farm building fires in eight years

Cork had the highest number of fires, with fire services between the city and county council attending 211 in the eight-year period.