Mayo island Fire Safety Team condemns alleged criminal removal of roadside fire warning sign

The Achill IFA Commonage Fire Watch Team is today strongly condemning the alleged criminal removal of a newly installed fire risk warning sign at The Grove, Bunnacurry, a recognised fire blackspot and one of the busiest stretches of road on Achill Island. The incident occurred in the days leading up to the Achill Half Marathon, one of the island’s most popular annual events, which draws a significant increase in vehicle traffic to the area.

The sign was one of three temporary fire safety signs installed in recent weeks by Mayo County Council in response to continued fire risk and rising community concern. Located in areas with a history of roadside wildfires, many believed to be caused by discarded cigarette butts, the signs aimed to increase awareness and help prevent further outbreaks during the dry summer months.

While two of the signs remain in place, the one at The Grove was removed entirely and has not been recovered, despite searches by council staff in the surrounding area. The fire watch team believe the sign was not simply displaced but knowingly taken away.

"The removal of this public safety signage represents a serious act of interference with efforts to protect homes, farmland, biodiversity, and lives," said a spokesperson for the fire watch team. "The matter has been formally reported to An Garda Síochána, and the Fire Watch Team is calling for a full investigation into its removal.

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"The team has welcomed the cooperation from Mayo County Council to date, but the incident also highlights a clear vulnerability in current fire safety measures. The temporary nature of the signage made it easy to remove, reinforcing the need for properly funded, permanent fire risk signage across the island.

"The Fire Watch Team is renewing its call for a dedicated local authority budget to deliver a long-term fire awareness strategy. This includes large, permanent signs placed in both high-risk and moderate-risk areas, along with a coordinated public awareness campaign. With twelve fires recorded in the past three years, and three already in 2025, the risk continues to grow.

"These roadside fires, often caused by discarded cigarette butts have come within metres of homes, destroyed thousands of acres of grazing land and habitats, and placed enormous pressure on local emergency services. As road use increases during the summer months, the need for clear public messaging becomes even more critical.

"The Achill IFA Fire Watch Team continues to seek joined-up action and cooperation between Mayo County Council, the Department of Agriculture, the Road Safety Authority, the National Parks and Wildlife Service, and local emergency services. These agencies each carry responsibility for protecting people, property, and the environment and must now act in unison."

Anyone with information about the missing sign is asked to contact the Gardaí in confidence.

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