11 August 2026
By Elaine Murphy
elaine@TheCork.ie
The National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) should adopt a more proactive approach to the use of controlled burning in the open season as part of Ireland’s wildfire prevention strategy, a Fine Gael Senator has said.
Senator Eileen Lynch said following the devastating fires witnessed in recent weeks in the Comeragh Mountains and Slievenamon, a comprehensive strategy is needed to prevent and tackle further wildfires.
“Protecting habitats and biodiversity must remain a priority and there is a clear need for a balanced approach to land management that reduces the build-up of dangerous fuel loads before they become a major wildfire risk.
“The scenes we have witnessed in the Comeraghs and on Slievenamon are a stark reminder that Ireland is not immune from the growing threat of wildfires. Across Europe, countries are experiencing increasingly severe fire seasons, and Ireland must adapt its land management practices accordingly.
“The NPWS needs to work more closely with landowners, farmers, local communities and emergency services to examine how carefully managed controlled burning can be carried out. These planned burns from the months of September to February can remove excessive vegetation under safe conditions, significantly reducing the intensity and spread of uncontrolled wildfires.
“I have been working with farmers on the Comeragh to see how we can prevent future wildfires and there is a clear need to examine how best we can use controlled fires in the open season.
“We need to recognise that properly managed controlled burning has long been part of responsible upland management. It can improve habitat quality, support biodiversity and reduce the build-up of old vegetation that allows fires to burn hotter and for longer.”
The Cork North West Senator said controlled burning also plays an important role in reducing the prevalence of vegetation that contributes to animal health issues from ticks in vegetation, such as louping ill and redwater.
Senator Lynch also called for greater use of strategic fire breaks and fire blankets in vulnerable upland areas to help contain fires before they spread across vast areas of countryside.
“Preventative measures are always preferable to emergency responses.
“The NPWS should review current policies on wildfire prevention in light of changing climate conditions.
“Climate change means that prolonged dry spells are becoming more common. We cannot continue to rely solely on reacting once fires have started. We need a comprehensive wildfire prevention strategy that includes controlled burning, strategic fire breaks, stronger collaboration with land managers and greater investment in preventative measures. Taking action now will help protect our landscapes, wildlife and rural communities into the future,” concluded Senator Lynch.