Major gorse fire continuing to burn in Co Wexford

Sarah Slater

A major gorse fire which broke out in Co Wexford continues to burn on Monday morning.

The blaze broke out on Tara Hill in Gorey at around 2pm on Sunday.

Seven units from Wexford and Wicklow Fire Services have been battling the blaze overnight along with gardaí and local farmers to bring it under control.

Wexford County Council's fire service has also ensured that several water tankers. Water has also been drawn from the river Ahare.

The blaze initially seemed under control, but it intensified overnight due to nearby sea breezes.

Dry weather conditions are making it easier for the fire to spread.

Malcolm Byrne, North Wexford TD said the blaze is “deeply worrying”.

An assessment is expected to be made on Monday on whether helicopter assistance is needed.

There is already a significant impact to wildlife and the environment in the area.

As a result of no significant rainfall in the past month, the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine is warning that there is a high fire risk or status orange alert.

The orange warning has been in effect since 3 pm last Friday and will last until midday on Tuesday.

According to the Department, current weather patterns indicate a high fire risk “in all areas” where hazardous fuels such as dead grasses and shrub fuels such as heather and gorse exist.