DAERA Minister Andrew Muir has published the Wildfire Action Plan to 2030. The plan addresses the increasing frequency and impact of wildfires in Northern Ireland. It employs a multi-agency approach within a broader strategic framework.

The plan targets five areas: prevention, preparedness, response, recovery and enforcement. It includes 35 priority actions to build regional capacity. Muir stated that wildfires in recent years have threatened homes, businesses, communities and upland habitats.

Muir noted the plan will cut wildfire risks via targeted actions. He said it will boost community resilience by increasing awareness of dangers and supplying adaptation tools. The plan aligns with efforts on climate change adaptation, biodiversity and peatland restoration.

Delivery involves partners such as the Northern Ireland Strategic Wildfire Group and the Wildfire Stakeholder Forum. Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Service Area Commander Ryan Thompson called it a new method to lessen wildfire frequency and severity. Thompson stressed readiness for firefighters and urged countryside safety compliance as spring starts.

DAERA selected a consortium led by the Pau Costa Foundation for a three-year Wildfire Recovery Project. The project covers Eastern Mournes, North Antrim Hills and Carn/Glenshane Pass. It seeks to enhance resilience via research, planning and stakeholder input with landowners, Ulster Farmers’ Union, Northern Ireland Water and Forest Service.

Muir described the expert appointment as a key advance in wildfire management and called for stakeholder participation. The Catalonia-based Pau Costa Foundation focuses on wildfire management, fire ecology and landscape planning.