In pictures: Minister blames 'human activity' for Killarney National Park wildfire
A wildfire at Killarney National Park in Ireland has been attributed to human activity, specifically the use of disposable barbecues during a heatwave. Firefighters successfully contained the blaze, which damaged 15 hectares of land.
Why it matters
The incident highlights the growing environmental risks posed by human negligence in protected areas during extreme weather events.
Wed, 15 Jul, 2026 - 08:53 Manon Gilbart Biodiversity minister Christopher O’Sullivan has blamed "human activity" for the outbreak of a wildfire yesterday evening at Killarney National Park .
Firefighters extinguished the large fire after it caused damage to around 15 hectares of land within the park.
Four units of Kerry Fire Service were on the scene for hours, along with two helicopters deployed to help bring the blaze under control.
Mr O'Sullivan said the "devastating fire" was "not a natural disaster" and was caused by "human activity".
“For days, the National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) has been battling fires, including incidents believed to have been started by the reckless use of disposable barbecues. This is utterly unacceptable," he said.
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