A massive fire in west Roscommon is still ongoing this evening - despite the best efforts of emergency services. It broke out in Gorthaganny this afternoon and has spread to a significant area. There are several fires throughout the area, and a number of homes have been evacuated as a precaution. The road between Carrowbehy crossroads and Coney Island pub is currently closed.
Several acres of forestry have been destroyed, and gardai and fire services, including from Ballaghaderreen and Ballyhaunis, are trying to bring the blaze under control. Castlerea fire station has been closed since 2017. The cathaoirleach of Roscommon County Council, Paschal Fitzmaurice, who lives in Castlerea, has been speaking to our reporter Eoghan Murphy:
Senator Gareth Scahill, who lives in Ballinlough, says the fire is very close to houses:
Ballaghaderreen councillor and fireman Micheál Frain is urging people to be vigilant in the hot weather:
