Brave efforts at Tara Hill fire

By Dan Walsh at Gorey Kilmuckridge Municipal Council monthly meeting

At today’s monthly meeting of Gorey Kilmuckridge Municipal District Council, Cathaoirleach Cllr Oliver Walsh recalled the ‘serious incident of the fire on Tara Hill over the weekend” and he commended the bravery of everyone involved including the fire service, road crews, Gardaí, Coillte, the Air Corps and, especially, the people of the community.

A major outbreak of fire at Tara Hill, first noticed at 4pm on Sunday. An Air Corps helicopter unit arrived at 12.40pm on Monday and was successful in dispersing water and reducing the fire, prioritising residential areas. 

Seven fire appliances from Gorey, Enniscorthy, Bunclody, Carnew and Arklow attended the scene.

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.

Director of Services Liz Hore acknowledged the bravery of the staff while Roads Engineer Joanne Kehoe told the meeting that road staff had been stood down at 9am this morning (Tuesday).

Cllr Joe Sullivan who resides closest to the fire site and visited the scene of the fire on several occasions said; “The fire service and Wexford County Council were exceptional, and he wished to complement the people in the services.” He pointed out that the services are never found wanting when an emergency arises.

Cllr Sullivan also acknowledged the local farmers and contractors who put their lives in danger to assist others. “Rural communities are never found wanting at times like this and I want to say thanks to everyone for working so hard in times of emergency.”

Cllrs Darragh McDonald and Pip Breen also praised “community spirit”.

Tara Hill was still smouldering today when the Council meeting began but an expected short spell of thunder and heavy rain brought heavenly relief to the area and reassured the residents that their homes and property have survived.