Investigation launched after 'significant' fire on Mizen Head Peninsula

The National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) at the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage has confirmed it is investigating a significant fire incident at Barley Cove, on the Mizen Head Peninsula

An investigation has been launched after a "significant" fire on the Mizen Head Peninsula on Sunday evening.

The National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) confirmed that a probe had been launched after reports were made of an incident at Barley Cove.

A special area of conservation on the Peninsula was affected, with about 150 hectares of land damaged

Special areas of conservation are prime conservation areas for nature and wildlife conservation in Ireland —they are selected and designated under the EU Habitats Directive.

The NPWS say it is conducting "extensive" surveying of the damage done to the area via surveillance both on foot and in the air.

Officials are conducting door to door enquiries for a possible prosecution.

Nature, heritage, and biodiversity minister Christopher O'Sullivan said: “Illegal and uncontrolled fires cause irreparable damage to wildlife, habitats and the environment, puts our communities at risk and also causes unnecessary pressure on our emergency services. 

Our special areas of conservation protect nature and wildlife in those places where our most treasured and vulnerable species live and make their homes. 

"Aerial surveillance carried out by the NPWS at the scene indicates extensive damage within the (special area) to the upland and heathland habitats, and to areas that support the rare Marsh Fritillary Butterfly.

"An investigation is now underway and I’m appealing to the public to come forward with any information that may be of assistance.”

Director general of NPWS Niall Ó Donnchú said incidents like this pose a "serious threat."

He said: “We have invested in our capacity to respond quickly when they occur. We are working closely with the gardaí on this investigation and are collaborating with them to tackle wildlife crime throughout the country."

"We appeal to landowners to be aware of their responsibilities in relation to Special Areas of Conservation and Special Protection Areas where consent to undertake burning at any time is often a requirement, and to their obligations under Section 40 of the Wildlife Acts and burning generally – which is prohibited from March 1 to August 31."