Forest fire prevention highlighted

Ireland: The number of forest fires in recent weeks is a matter for concern, according to Minister of State John Browne.

He said the risk of forest fires was at its highest at this time of year. Young forest crops are especially vulnerable, given the small size of trees and their proximity to flammable ground vegetation.

Mr Browne reiterated the advice he issued earlier this year, which set out some simple, cost-effective steps to reduce the risk of fire damage to plantations.