Member of the Senedd for Monmouth, Peter Fox, has said action and greater awareness by the public is needed to prevent wildfires in Monmouthshire.
Following a recent Freedom of Information request to the South Wales Fire and Rescue Service, the data provided has shown that in the last five years, there have been 8 fires in the vicinity of the Blorenge, and 2 fires each in the vicinity of the Sugar Loaf and Skirrid mountains.
The Monmouth MS acknowledged that whilst the statistics were not as intense as they might be in other areas, they were still concerning for such a small area of the county over a five-year period.
Mr Fox has consistently raised the issue in the Senedd with both the Cabinet Secretary, and by tabling a Statement of Opinion relating specifically to Disposable BBQs.
Local MS for Monmouth, Peter Fox, has said:
“Wildfires has been a topical issue for me in recent weeks, following concern about a recent spate of fires near Abergavenny.
“I was very pleased to table a Statement of Opinion in the Senedd, supporting the work of the UK Retail Consortium for their guidance on the sale of disposable BBQs.
“I have raised this matter with Welsh Government and have also dedicated one of my weekly columns in raising awareness of this issue.
“We all enjoy the countryside, but we must take care to protect it. Wildfires can start naturally, even from the smallest of sources, and cause widespread damage. Of course there can also be a deliberate causing of these fire, but everyone needs to be aware of the risks associated of spending time outdoors, and be vigilant, as fires can be caused far too easily by small actions.
“I hope to see improved collaboration with a number of groups to not only reduce the number of wildfires we are seeing in the county, but to better educate people to take care when they are out and about, ensuring our environment is protected for everyone.”
