Tara Hill fire is under control

By Dan Walsh

A major outbreak of fire at Tara Hill, raging since Sunday afternoon, is under control tonight.

An Air Corps helicopter unit arrived at 12.40pm today (Monday) and has been very successful in dispersing water and reducing the fire, prioritising residential areas. 

The fire moved from a traditional in-flame phase to dampening down. Seven fire appliances from Gorey, Enniscorthy, Bunclody, Carnew and Arklow attended the scene continue to dampen down the remaining fire.

Firefighters spent several hours combating a fire at the top of the hill, with no homes currently at risk. Some homes were evacuated on Sunday night as a precautionary measure.

They are being assisted by Coillte, An Garda Siochána and local farmers who supplied water tankers, traffic control and the creation of fire breaks in the area.

Farmers have been transporting water from the Ahare River up the hill for the fire units and the local community has been gathering supplies to give to the emergency services at the local GAA club and Tara Vale pub.

Tara Hill Community Development Association thanked local farmers on Facebook.

“Last night, 15 local farmers worked tirelessly, drawing water from the Ahare river and nearby ponds. Their quick action and dedication were instrumental in helping to slow the spread of the fire,” said the statement.