Condemning a spate of countryside fires over the past few weeks, the Minister said it was absolutely unacceptable for anyone to deliberately start fires.
He said: “All our emergency workers strive to protect and save the population from harm. It is likely that those people who are starting these fires will one day need help from those very staff they are placing in jeopardy.
“By engaging in deliberate fire-setting, there is a very real risk that a firefighter will be injured or equipment may be damaged, resulting in a fire engine not being available for a real emergency.
“Deliberate fires are criminal, and have no place in a civilised society. The perpetrators need to be caught and they need to be punished.”
He continued: “The Fire Service already works closely with local communities to try and address this dangerous activity.
“Our firefighters put their lives on the line every day to save lives in their communities. By setting these fires, these people are attacking the whole community and their actions must be condemned."
Notes to Editors:
Media queries to DHSSPS Press Office on 028 9052 0074, or out of office hours please contact the Duty Press Officer via pager number 07699 715 440 and your call will be returned.
