Northern Ireland’s Fire and Rescue Service (NIFRS) has reported a “challenging and extremely busy” Eleventh Night, with firefighters responding to 277 emergency calls across the region, more than double the number received during last year’s celebrations.
The surge in emergency incidents between 6pm and 2am included 72 bonfire-related calls, wildfires in rural areas, and a serious road traffic collision.
NIFRS crews were deployed to manage the risks posed by bonfires in multiple locations, particularly in Belfast and County Down, where a blaze at Bloody Bridge required the efforts of five fire appliances to extinguish.
The Eleventh Night marks the eve of the Orange Order’s 12 July parades and is traditionally celebrated with bonfires across unionist areas. While many events proceed without incident, several sites raised safety and environmental concerns.
Notably, a bonfire off the Donegall Road in south Belfast was lit despite warnings from Northern Ireland’s Environment Minister Andrew Muir, who had urged the public to stay away due to asbestos concerns and its proximity to an electricity substation supplying power to two major hospitals.
NIFRS Area Commander Andy Burns confirmed that fire crews were stationed at the Donegall Road site and employed a “water curtain” to protect the substation.
He acknowledged the support of the local community: “Our crews were welcomed in and encouraged by members of the community who provided a lot of support.”
However, tensions were also reported. In Lisburn, a firefighter was struck by a bottle at one bonfire. “They were not injured and remained on duty,” Burns said, noting the incident was isolated and not representative of the broader community’s cooperation.
In a separate concern, effigies of Irish rap group Kneecap were placed on a bonfire in south Belfast, while a banner mocking the group appeared on a bonfire in Dungannon, County Tyrone.
The band’s manager, Daniel Lambert, posted a response on social media, quoting Kneecap as saying: “Young working-class people in Belfast are facing the same issues whether they’re from the Falls Road or the Shankill.”
With high temperatures and dry conditions forecast for the bank holiday weekend, NIFRS has warned of further operational pressures. Burns stressed the importance of public cooperation: “We urge everyone to act responsibly and consider the impact their actions may have on public safety and emergency services.”
As the 12 July parades continue across Northern Ireland, authorities remain on alert for further fire-related incidents.
