By Eniola Amadu
Environment Minister Andrew Muir has vowed that those responsible for deliberately starting wildfires in Northern Ireland will be pursued and brought before the courts, as he unveiled a new framework to tackle the growing threat.
Speaking at Peatlands Park in County Tyrone, Mr Muir said a coordinated approach between government departments, emergency services, environmental groups and local communities was essential to prevent and manage wildfires.
“I’ve got a clear message for those who are deliberately setting malicious fires in our countryside — we’re coming after you,” he warned. “And for those who are shielding them, you need to give them up.”
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The new Strategic Framework for Wildfire Management, which will run until 2030, sets out actions across five key areas — prevention, preparedness, response, recovery and enforcement.
A dedicated Wildfire Action Plan is expected to follow in 2026.
The framework calls for stronger enforcement and a review of existing laws on wildfires caused by negligence or malice.
Mr Muir said the Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) would work closely with other agencies to identify offenders.
“It’s only by the grace of God that no one’s been killed or seriously injured as a result of these fires,” he said.
“Those going out and deliberately lighting fires need to think twice — the PSNI knows about this and they will be seeking prosecutions.”
Wildfires have become an increasing concern for environmental groups, with more than 200 reported over a few days in early April.
Conservationists have warned that fires in peatland areas, such as Slieve Beagh, can cause lasting damage that takes thousands of years to recover from.
Mr Muir added that climate change was making wildfires more likely, calling for greater public awareness and community engagement.
“Education and cooperation across agencies and landowners will be crucial to reducing incidents and protecting our natural environment,” he said.
Area Commander Ryan Thompson, wildfire lead at the Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Service (NIFRS), said wildfires placed a significant strain on emergency services and caused wide-ranging damage.
“These are long, arduous incidents which take a toll on fire crews,” he said.
“They have a massive impact on wildlife, special habitats, and the health of both the community and emergency responders.”
The framework also includes plans to develop early warning systems and strengthen cross-border cooperation with the Republic of Ireland to improve prevention and response efforts.
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Mr Muir said the goal was not only to respond effectively to wildfires but to reduce their occurrence through education, improved preparedness, and enforcement.
“We want communities, agencies and landowners to work together — because tackling wildfires is everyone’s responsibility,” he said.
