Write a commentFire crews from Newry and Warrenpoint spent several hours last night dealing with an extensive gorse fire on Camlough Mountain, close to the Bernish Viewpoint overlooking Newry City.
Local political figures have released statements about the incident which they believe was started deliberately. They also spoke of their dismay at the diversion of vital fire crew resources in the midst of the Coronavirus crisis.
The blaze could be seen for miles around as darkness fell. Local Pizza takeaway Milano's Pizza provided the crew with hot food to keep them going.
Newry and Armagh MLA Liz Kimmins condemned those involved saying that not only do they put lives at risk but they are also diverting the vital resources of the emergency services. “This is a disgrace and those who have started this gorse fire should be ashamed of themselves. Not only do these reckless actions put lives at risk but they are also diverting the vital resources of the emergency services at this crucial time”.
The Newry and Armagh MLA added,“We are in a time of uncertainty and crisis. The last thing we need is this type of serious criminal anti social actions. It must stop and stop now”.
MLA Justin McNulty also spoke about how the emergency services need to be able to conserve their energy and resources for when it’s needed most.
“Resources are limited and incidents like this put undue pressure on fire crews and emergency services. We all need to act responsibly in this extraordinary time of crisis and we need our emergency services able to respond with their full resource."
“Fire crews were on site for 4 – 5 hrs on Sunday evening quelling the flames of an out of control gorse fire that had obviously been recklessly and thoughtlessly started deliberately."
Mr McNulty spoke with the District Fire Chief who was dismayed that fire crews were being called away unnecessarily in the midst of emergency services having to implement a whole raft of changes in preparation for dealing with the Covid-19 crisis.
