AQW 45529/22-27 Written question to the Minister of Health
To ask the Minister of Health, pursuant to AQO 3502/22-27, whether any assessment has been made of the scale of challenge to the Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Service that upland fires, such as those in the Mournes, represent.
Asked by Andrew McMurray MLA on 5 May 2026
- Answered
- Written
- After due date
- Tabled
- 5 May 2026
- Answer due by
- 20 May 2026
- Answered
- 28 May 202623 days after tabling
- Department
- Department of Health
- Priority question
- No
Answer
The Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Service (NIFRS) has assessed upland wildfires as a significant and growing operational challenge.
These incidents are often seasonal, prolonged, and resourceintensive, taking place in remote terrain and requiring specialist skills and equipment. NIFRS keeps this risk under review and continues to enhance its capability through training, equipment, planning, multiagency working and a focus on prevention.