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Winter 2020 €3.95 UK£3.40 ISSN 0790 8008 Issue 136
HILLWALKING • CLIMBING • MOUNTAINEERING
Visit Joyce Country
A new take on Connemara’s hills and lakes
Ice climbing in Canada
The Rockies offer endless icy challenges
www.mountaineering.ie
A WORD FROM THE EDITOR
ISSUE 136
The Irish Mountain Log is the
membership magazine of
Mountaineering Ireland. The
Welcome
organisation promotes the interests
of hillwalkers and climbers in Ireland.
Mountaineering Ireland
❝
Mountaineering Ireland Ltd is a
company limited by guarantee and
A
year like no other is thankfully registered in Dublin, No 199053.
coming to an end. The Covid-19 Registered office: Irish Sport HQ,
restrictions have meant that National Sports Campus,
Blanchardstown, Dublin 15, Ireland.
we have not been able to
Tel: (+353 1) 625 1115
engage in our sport for much of We are looking forward to a Fax: (+353 1) 625 1116
the year. However, while the pandemic is info@mountaineering.ie
still ongoing, we have perhaps come to hopefully more active 2021! www.mountaineering.ie
terms with it to a degree. Going forward,
certainly, there is evidence that the spread Hot Rock Climbing Wall
Tollymore Mountain Centre
of the disease is much less likely in the I would like to thank the other members Bryansford, Newcastle
outdoors (see page 5 and also page 9), of the Editorial Team very much for their County Down, BT33 0PT
which is good for our sport. support in this difficult year, Literary Editor, Tel: (+44 28) 4372 5354
We have again been able to publish more Peter O’Neill, Features Editor, Nicky Hore, youth@mountaineering.ie
features than usual, because we have less and Cóilín MacLochlainn, who produces
news, but I hope we have an interesting Editor: Patrick O’Sullivan
the magazine for us.
Tel: (+353 1) 837 8166 (pm, wknds)
selection for the Christmas read! Certainly, I would also like to thank the contributors iml-editor@mountaineering.ie
a good range of activities is covered. on whom we depend so much for the Literary Editor: Peter O’Neill
A hike on the Ulster Way, Comeragh content of this magazine. We are always iml-literaryeditor@mountaineering.ie
placenames, hiking in Iceland and Malawi, looking for articles from all of our members, Features Editor: Nicky Hore
scrambling in the Cuillins and ice climbing iml-featureseditor@mountaineering.ie
whatever your background or experience.
in the Rockies are all included. Hopefully, I hope that we can all celebrate The Irish Mountain Log is published by
something for everyone in the audience. Christmas and the New Year with family Mountaineering Ireland four times a
We also have some more reflective pieces and friends in some way, while observing year, in March, June, September,
on hillwalking and the lockdown, how the necessary social distancing, etc. December. The material published in
different members have reacted to and 2021 will be Mountaineering Ireland’s the Log by the voluntary editorial team
coped with it. and contributors must not be taken as
fiftieth anniversary, so a lot to celebrate
official Mountaineering Ireland policy
It is a time of the year when we do then, whatever happens! unless specifically stated.
become more reflective, looking back on On behalf of the Editorial Team, and the
the year gone by and looking forward to the Board and the staff of Mountaineering Copy deadline for the Spring 2021
year to come. Hopefully the large numbers Ireland, I wish all Mountaineering Ireland issue of the Irish Mountain Log is:
that were seen in the uplands after the first members a safe and enjoyable Christmas Friday, February 19th 2021.
lockdown ended and the damage caused and New Year, and a hopefully active 2021!
Advertising: info@mountaineering.ie
will not be repeated when the current
restrictions are lifted. Patrick O’Sullivan, Editor Production: Cóilín MacLochlainn,
coilin@natureireland.ie
Printing: GPS Colour Graphics Ltd,
Alexander Road, Belfast BT6 9HP
Write for the Log Tel: +44 (0)28 9070 2020
PARTICIPATION AND RISK
Readers of the Irish Mountain Log are
Contributions of features, news items and photographs for reminded that hillwalking and climbing
the Irish Mountain Log are always welcome and should be are activities with a danger of personal
sent to the Editor at: iml-editor@mountaineering.ie. injury or death. Participants in these
activities should be aware of and
Contributors’ guidelines can be downloaded from the accept these risks, and be responsible
for their own actions and involvement.
Mountaineering Ireland website, www.mountaineering.ie.
Mountaineering Ireland publishes and
ON THE COVER promotes safety and good practice
To join Mountaineering Ireland and receive four issues of the Derryclare Lough, Twelve Bens, advice and through the Mountain
Irish Mountain Log delivered to your door each year, please Connemara, Co Galway
Training Board of Ireland administers a
also go to the website, www.mountaineering.ie. range of training programmes for
PHOTOGRAPH
JCWL GEOPARK PROJECT walkers and climbers.
Winter 2020 Irish Mountain Log 3
CONTENTS Winter 2020 Knockaunapeebra in the
Mahon valley, in the
Comeraghs, Co Waterford
(see story, page 38)
News 15 Our 21-Day Walking Challenge
Photographs: Michael O’Donoghue (Knockaunapeebra), Clare O’Leary Collection (Clare O’Leary), National Famine Museum/OSi (Famine Way section)
Linda Sankey reports
5 Covid-19 advice 16 National Famine Way
6 European Week of Sport 2020 launched
Ania Bakiewicz reports Charlotte O’Connor reports
8 Irish Peaks: the perfect 17 ‘Happy Hiking’ campaign
Christmas present announced
8 Outdoor sports and Covid-19 Ruth Whelan reports
9 Notice of AGM 18 Kerry UNESCO Biosphere
9 Honorary membership Reserve now active
Eleanor Turner reports
awarded
19 New committee chair
10 Tips on holding club appointed
meetings online Helen Lawless reports
12 2020 Lynam Medal 20 Guth na talún: voice
recipient: Clare O’Leary
By Patrick O’Sullivan
of the land
By Michael Hegarty
16 FAMINE WAY LAUNCHED
14 National Walking Day 22 Funding for Appalachian
a great success Trail through Ulster
Linda Sankey reports 38 What’s in a name? The
Inga Block reports Comeraghs’ place names
23 Crossword results By Michael O’Donoghue
42 The warm heart of Africa
News Features By Regina Flynn
45 Magical hiking in Iceland
24 2020 Youth Climbing Series By Lar Matthews
By Damien O’Sullivan 48 Scrambles in the Cuillin
26 Summer Rock Climbing Days By Alan Tees
By Kevin Kilroy 50 Ice climbing in the Rockies
28 Put a lid on it! By Naoise Ó Muircheartaigh
Damien O’Sullivan on the benefits
of modern climbing helmets Regulars
30 The lure of the hills
By Marian Wallis 11 Crossword Competition
66 Coping with Covid 54 Club Support Meeting
Ruth Whelan reports
By Claire Griffin
56 Access & Conservation
Helen Lawless reports
Clare O’Leary
Features 58 Training
32 Kicking with both feet: Jane Carney reports
walking the Ulster Way
12 2020 LYNAM MEDAL RECIPIENT
By Gerdette Rooney
60 Books
Reviews of recent books
4 Irish Mountain Log Winter 2020
Newsdesk
Staff & Board
General enquirieS
info@mountaineering.ie
Staff
Chief executive Officer
Murrough McDonagh,
murrough@mountaineering.ie
administration Officer
Siobhán Quinn, info@mountaineering.ie
Hillwalking Development Officer
Ruth Whelan, ruth@mountaineering.ie
access & Conservation Officer
Helen Lawless, helen@mountaineering.ie
Women in Sport Coordinator
Ania Bakiewicz, ania@mountaineering.ie
training Officer
Jane Carney, jane@mountaineering.ie
training & Membership
Support administrator
Laura Griffin, laura@mountaineering.ie
Climbing Officer
Damien O’Sullivan,
damien@mountaineering.ie
Youth Development Officer for
Covid-19 advice
northern ireland
Our latest advice for hillwalkers and climbers in Ireland
Kevin Kilroy, kevin@mountaineering.ie
● Transport is in household pods only
Get irelanD WalkinG initiative ● People travel directly to and from their
Programme Manager, Get ireland Walking chosen location for exercise
Jason King, jason@getirelandwalking.ie
Communications & administrative Officer, ● Safe hygiene practices are maintained.
Get ireland Walking At the time of writing, the Republic of Mountaineering Ireland’s Chief
Linda Sankey, linda@getirelandwalking.ie Ireland is at Level 5 and Northern Ireland is Executive Officer, Murrough McDonagh,
also at a high level of Covid-19 restrictions. noted: “Those involved in outdoor
MOuntaineerinG irelanD
However, this will certainly be changing in recreation activities recognise the
BOarD OffiCerS
President one or both jurisdictions in the run up to considerable health and psychological
Paul Kellagher Christmas. In the Republic, in light of benefits for people of having access to
president@mountaineering.ie improving data on Covid-19 infections, the outdoors, particularly in the current
Chairperson hospitalisations and deaths, a relaxation in
situation, providing it is done in a safe and
Paul Barron restrictions may be on the cards for the
chairperson@mountaineering.ie responsible way. Our members have raised
Christmas period. While the restrictions
may be relaxed, everyone will still be well their concerns about not having access to
BOarD MeMBerS venues for hillwalking and climbing during
advised to continue to follow the public
Imelda Buckley the lockdown.
health guidance on respiratory and hand
(Chair of Finance, Audit & Risk Committee) “When they are carried out in a safe
hygiene, the wearing of face masks,
imelda-board@mountaineering.ie
maintaining a social distance from other and responsible way, outdoor recreation
David Pollard
people, and limiting social contacts. activities within single households do not
(Chair of Access & Conservation Committee)
david-board@mountaineering.ie In light of data that shows that the appear to cause increased transmission of
Trish Kane spread of Covid-19 is much less likely in Covid-19. We have requested the support
trish-board@mountaineering.ie the outdoors (see page 9), Mountaineering of Sport Ireland, and asked the
Colette Mahon Ireland has lobbied at national level to government at national level, to make
colette-board@mountaineering.ie open access to the outdoors, even during changes in Levels 3, 4, and 5 of the current
Michael Maunsell the restrictions. Mountaineering Ireland plan, to allow access for recreation
mike-board@mountaineering.ie requested that the government consider beyond 5km from home and beyond
Gráinne McLaughlin the following in its review of the current
county boundaries. Under the Level 5
(Chair of Hillwalking Committee) restrictions:
restrictions in the Republic, we saw large
grainne-board@mountaineering.ie
Clare O’Connor
● Allow access to the outdoors for numbers of people converging on the very
clare-board@mountaineering.ie
physical activity and wellbeing to be limited public spaces within Co Dublin.
Dawson Stelfox included in Levels 3, 4 and 5 of the Allowing people to responsibly engage in
(Chair of Mountain Training Board Ireland) ‘Plan for Living with Covid-19.’ physical activity and wellbeing in the
dawson-board@mountaineering.ie ● Allow people to travel for physical outdoors, in locations with far fewer
Geoff Thomas activity and wellbeing beyond the 5km people present, would appear to be a safer
(Chair of Climbing Committee) and county boundary restrictions once approach moving forward. What we are
geoff-board@mountaineering.ie the following conditions are adhered asking is that the Plan for Living with
Noel Caffrey to:
noel-board@mountaineering.ie
Covid-19 be adapted to allow people
● Social distancing of two metres is enjoy the outdoors in a meaningful and
maintained responsible way” ■
Winter 2020 Irish Mountain Log 5
NEWSL0G
Participants practicing navigation on a walk in the Sperrins during European Week of Sport
European Week of Sport: what a week it was!
Mountaineering Ireland marked European Week of Sport (September 23-30th 2020) with Women
in Sport events – women hillwalking, women rock climbing and women trail running
By Ania Bakiewicz, beauty and solitude, Rescue Association, led a pouring rain across the island of
Women in Sport Coordinator showcasing a variety of local group through the Galtee Ireland. I set off with my group
hidden gems. The programme Mountains, introducing them to Glendasan in search of dry
This year, Mountaineering spanned the whole week, with to navigation, using a map rock. With crash pads, climbing
Ireland and Women in Sport female instructors providing and compass. shoes and huge enthusiasm,
celebrated European Week skill sessions to female In the Wicklow Mountains, we explored the boulders there.
of Sport with activities for participants. The activities Helen Lawless, Mountaineering Unexpectedly, the sun came
women on hills and crags were pitched at an entry level, Ireland’s Access and out and allowed us to climb.
across the island of Ireland. encouraging women of all Conservation Officer, unlocked The group learned different
And what a week it was! abilities to enjoy the stunning the secrets of the heritage sites foot placement techniques,
The activities were funded mountains with their families along St Kevin’s Way, climbing higher and getting
by Sport Ireland’s Women in and friends. showcasing the fauna and flora more confidence with every
Sport initiative and around Camaderry Mountain problem.
Mountaineering Ireland, Day 1 and generating interest in next In Altnadue Quarry, Co Down,
partnered up with Sport We kicked off the activities year’s Women With Altitude Kath Maguire, an Outdoor
Ireland Outdoors, Local Sports with two mountain walks in event. Instructor, ran a rock climbing
Partnerships and Get Ireland ideal weather conditions on session with only one
Walking to organise them. Wednesday, September 23rd. Day 2 participant, but what a climber
The selected venues Maureen O’Brien, a member of Thursday brought an abrupt she was! Susanna Gaynor did
balanced accessibility with the South Eastern Mountain change in the weather, with not mind the rain and could
On the environmental walk in Wicklow Bouldering in Meelmore, in the Mournes Susanna Gaynor abseiling in Altnadue Quarry
6 Irish Mountain Log Winter 2020
not get enough of climbing and the Iron Age Rathcoran hill fort.
abseiling. She immediately In the afternoon, Joanna
joined the Feel Good Factor McInerney, Mountain Leader,
Club. led a group on an
In Mayo, Georgia MacMillan, environmental walk through
a Mountain Leader, took her the Slieve Carran Nature
group at night to the Dark Mayo Reserve in the Burren, Co Clare.
Sky Park in the Nephins.
Conditions were not ideal for Day 5
stargazing, but it was very On Sunday, Ireland celebrated
exciting exploring the National Walking Day,
mountains at night. organised by Get Ireland
Photos: Rozzie Skuce (Sperrins walk), Egija Eilande (environmental walk), Teresa Brennan (boulldering), Kath Maghuire (Susanna abseiling), Ania Bakiewicz (rockclimbing in Dalkey)
Walking in partnership with
Day 3 Mountaineering Ireland. Many
The weather was mixed on hillwalking clubs and
Friday. Rozzy Skuce, a Duke of independent walkers explored
Edinburgh Provider, led a group their local areas. Rock climbing in Dalkey Quarry
along a scenic route between
Glenshane and Mullaghmore in Day 6 conditions. Claire Hardy led an with ages ranging from 20 to 57
the Sperrins. She demonstrated The rain returned on Monday amazing walk along the years. The sessions tested their
navigation with a compass and morning. In Altnadue Quarry, Annalong River in the Mournes, mental and physical skills.
map, introduced the women to Claire Hardy, Rock Climbing teaching navigation in the fog. These events could not have
Leave No Trace principles and Instructor, ran a climbing Jane Carney led another gone ahead without all the
pointed out the flora and session, teaching body climbing session in Dalkey instructors involved in the
fauna. movement, abseiling and rope during a well-timed weather planning and execution of the
Michelle Hughes, an skills.
window. The women programme, their knowledge of
International Mountain Leader, In the Galtees, Maureen
challenged themselves to the local areas, and their skills
led a navigation course around O’Brien taught navigation skills
harder and longer climbs and and experience. They were role
the slopes of Croagh Patrick. on and off trails.
enjoyed abseiling. models for the participating
In the Knockmealdowns, In the Knocknarea
European Week of Sport women, and their energy and
Maureen O’Brien outlined the Mountains, Co Sligo, Miriam
finished with a great running passion for the mountains left
emergency procedures that a Cunningham, a running coach,
session in the Glengarriff a huge imprint on the
hillwalker should know about. introduced a group to
Nature Reserve in west Cork, participants.
Back in the Mournes, Kath mountain trail running, leading
led by Tamela Maciel and The feedback was positive
Maguire led a scenic walk from them up to the magnificent
Kristen O’Sullivan from the and everyone agreed that they
Slievenaglough to Slieve tomb of the legendary Queen
Cork and Kerry Runners. had had an exhilarating and
Commedagh, uncovering the Maeve.
Despite September’s educational week that had
natural beauty of the place.
temperamental weather and pushed them out of their
That night, the skies in the Day 7 the disruption caused by comfort zones. Many
Dark Mayo Sky Park were clear, On Tuesday, the weather was
partial lockdowns in Northern participants expressed interest
allowing Georgia MacMillan to again in our favour. Up north,
Ireland, Dublin and Donegal, in signing up for the Mountain
explain the secrets of the Rozzy Skuce ran another
Women in Sport’s European Skills and Rock Skills courses,
September star constellations interesting navigation walk in
Week of Sport events went and staying in contact with the
over the Nephin Mountains. the beautiful Sperrin
ahead. One hundred and forty instructors.
Mountains.
women successfully took part The positive feedback from
Day 4 Claire Hardy took a group of
in twenty-four skill sessions the participants and the skills
Saturday morning was clear enthusiastic women climbing
delivered by fifteen female providers showed that there is
and bright. In Connemara, on Meelmore Boulders in the
providers in nineteen different a high level of demand among
Michelle Casey, Mountain Mournes, teaching footwork
locations across twelve women for mountain skills
Leader, led a walk around and body movement on the
counties. The participants courses delivered by female
Benbaun and Benbrack, rock.
included Irish, English, Polish, instructors and for more events
teaching the group the In Dalkey Quarry, Dublin,
techniques of landscape Jane Carney, Mountaineering Latvian and Brazilian women, of this type ■
photography. Ireland’s Training Officer,
Meanwhile in the Comeraghs, introduced a group to AUTHOR: Ania Bakiewicz is
Colette Mahon, Mountain traditional climbing. It was Mountaineering Ireland’s Women in
Leader, took a group walking fantastic to see women at Sport Coordinator.
and scrambling around different skill levels having a
Coumshingaun. great time teaching each other FIND OUT MORE: To find out more
about Women In Sport, visit the
Back in Wicklow, I led a group how to tie in and lead climbing. website
of archaeology enthusiasts to www.mountaineering.ie/programmes.
the top of Baltinglass Hill to Day 8
explore the Neolithic tomb and Wednesday brought stormy
Winter 2020 Irish Mountain Log 7
NEWSL0G
Irish Peaks: the perfect Christmas present
Order online now at www.irishpeaks.ie
“Irish Peaks is a genuine landmark in Irish mountain engagement with Ireland’s mountains, an engagement that is
based on understanding and respect.
publishing.” – Peter Walker, MountainViews
Irish Peaks is just what you or your hillwalking friends need, if
you are planning a hillwalking holiday in Ireland in 2021.
Mountaineering Ireland members get a 10% discount on the
recommended retail price of €29.95. This means you pay
€26.95 (plus postage and packaging charges). Order your copy
now from www.irishpeaks.ie.
Note: You can order up to eight books in a single shipment
and only pay the delivery charge for one book. This is exclusive
to orders to be delivered on the island of Ireland.
Key features
◆ 256-page hardcover guidebook, featuring 71 hillwalking
routes across the island of Ireland
◆ Routes submitted by Mountaineering Ireland members,
many from local clubs
◆ Illustrated with inspiring photographs and a map for each
Mountaineering Ireland’s new Irish Peaks guide celebrates route
Ireland’s highest mountains through an inspiring collection of
seventy-one hillwalking routes, contributed by Mountaineering ◆ Substantial introduction to Ireland’s mountain environment
Ireland members. These beautifully illustrated routes will ◆ Includes advice on access and safety in the mountains ■
encourage the reader to visit all of Ireland’s main mountain areas.
Irish Peaks has been published by Mountaineering Ireland as
a tribute to the late Joss Lynam, who edited the original Irish “Irish Peaks is a really attractive guide that makes the most
Peaks book, published in 1982. One of Mountaineering Ireland’s of its large format, and more to the point makes you want to
aims in producing this book is to promote responsible go and climb the hills.” – Dan Bailey, UK Hillwalking
Outdoor sports and Covid-19
Outdoor sports are a low risk for spread of Covid-19, according to the UIAA
The Medical Commission of the UIAA (the mask use, where appropriate, when close linked to the practice of mountain
International Climbing and contact is unavoidable. sports (such as use of public transport
Mountaineering Federation) has The paper is the result of a or carpooling to get to mountain areas
contributed to a new paper, “SARS-CoV-2, collaboration between international or staying in mountain huts), present
Covid-19 and mountain sports: specific scientists and mountaineers from risks for SARS-CoV-2 infections. These
risks, their mitigation and Scotland and other parts of the UK, risks can be mitigated by avoiding high-
recommendations for policy makers.” Germany, Switzerland and the USA. risk situations and taking commonsense
The draft paper has just been released. The authors report that searches of the measures such as practicing good
It is one of the first dedicated to Covid-19 internet and the medical literature, and hygiene, appropriate use of face masks
and outdoor and mountain sports. It has consultation with mountaineering and, above all, maintaining social
not been finalised or peer-reviewed yet, associations, have revealed minimal distancing as much as possible ■
but given the immediacy and global evidence for transmission of SARS-CoV-2
prevalence of Covid-19 the authors during participation in outdoor mountain
agreed to make their findings available sports. This is consistent with published
online. evidence showing that, in general,
The paper strongly supports the view outdoor-acquired SARS-CoV-2 infections
that outdoor sports, including are rare. They conclude that the risk of
mountaineering, are low-risk for the contracting SARS-CoV-2 infection during
spread of Covid-19, providing that basic outdoor mountain sport activities is low.
precautions are adhered to, including They emphasise, however, that some
social distancing, hand hygiene and face- situations indoors or in confined spaces,
8 Irish Mountain Log Winter 2020
Notice of 2021 Mountaineering Ireland AGM
The 2021 Annual General Motions and nominations
Meeting (AGM) of Mountaineering Ireland clubs and individual members are
Mountaineering Ireland invited to put forward motions for discussion at the AGM, and
will take place at 7.00pm also to nominate members for positions on the Board of
on Monday, March 29th, Mountaineering Ireland.
2021, at Irish Sport HQ,
National Sport Campus, Motions and nominations may be submitted by any member
Blanchardstown, Dublin 15, or via a virtual meeting club or by any three full members.
platform, if necessary (exact details to be confirmed Board members are elected for a three-year term.
later).
Motions and nominations must be submitted by email to
The time frame for the AGM is as follows: Mountaineering Ireland’s Company Secretary at
secretary@mountaineering.ie or by post to Company
● 6.00pm Meeting of Honorary and Secretary, Mountaineering Ireland, Irish Sport HQ, National
Individual Members Sports Campus, Blanchardstown, Dublin 15, to arrive not later
● 6.30-7.00pm Registration for Mountaineering than 5.00pm on Friday, February 26th, 2021.
Ireland AGM
● 7.00pm Mountaineering Ireland AGM Mountaineering Ireland will advise members about the exact
details of the AGM in the weeks leading up to the event ■
Honorary membership awarded
Terry O’Connor has been awarded honorary membership of Mountaineering Ireland
large part in the delivery of the Irish which since its inception has provided
Mountaineering Club’s beginners’ course innumerable young climbers the
for several years. Through much of the opportunity to experience, enjoy and
1990s, Terry was part of the team that put excel in climbing. Ultimately, Terry’s talent
in a huge amount of work organising and as a coach led him to taking on the role of
running the very popular Irish Bouldering coach of the Youth Climbing Team.
League. On behalf of our members,
As his son Daragh became more Mountaineering Ireland would like to take
interested in climbing, Terry’s focus this opportunity to thank Terry for all his
shifted towards the promotion and dedication over the years to helping so
development of youth climbing. Terry many people develop their passion for all
established the Winders Climbing Club, things climbing ■
Terry O’Connor
Mountaineering Ireland is delighted to
announce the awarding of Honorary
Membership to Terry O’Connor, former
coach of the Irish Youth Climbing Team.
Terry has played a huge role in the
promotion and development of climbing
in Ireland for over thirty years. His
contribution to Irish climbing is incredibly
far-reaching, encompassing aspects of
our sport from Himalayan expeditions to
local indoor bouldering competitions.
For the 1998 Irish Expedition to K2,
Terry accepted the role of Base Camp
Terry enjoying some bouldering in Fontainebleau, France
Manager As a club member, Terry played a
Winter 2020 Irish Mountain Log 9
NEWSLOG
Tips on holding club meetings online
Many clubs are interested in holding a virtual AGM or other meetings. Here’s how to go about it
Virtual meetings can be delivered just the Running your virtual AGM ■ Whichever option you choose, carry out
same as face-to-face meetings, but there a test with the audience at the start of
are a few things to consider in advance
■ Record the meeting. This will help to the meeting to make sure everyone is
ensure transparency and will help the
when planning to deliver virtually. Here are clear on how to vote.
Secretary write an account of the meeting
some top tips for delivering your AGM or
other meetings online.
afterwards. Make sure at the beginning of ■ Set a time limit in advance as to how
the meeting that all attendees are aware long each attendee has to vote, e.g. 60 or
the meeting is being recorded. 90 seconds.
The benefits of meeting online
■ It’s an opportunity for club ■ Identify who will be hosting the Communication
representatives to have their say and to meeting. The host should be a different
person to the one chairing the meeting. ■ Keep communication clear by
engage in progressing the direction of the introducing speakers and asking members
club when face-to-face meetings may not The host will manage the muting of
participants, the ‘raise your hand’ if you to state their name when asking a
be possible. question.
want to ask a question function, the
■ It’s an opportunity to connect with club voting functions and counting of votes. ■ At the start of the meeting, identify the
members who may not feel comfortable rules of behaviour, or how attendees can
meeting in person or going on club walks ■ Depending on the size of the meeting, engage during the meeting.
you could have a co-host to assist in
at the moment.
taking the minutes as well as managing ■ Make it clear that all participants will be
muted and there will be a system to ask
■ Meetings can be recorded. This will any questions or the chat box, etc.
questions, when you will be unmuted.
allow you to go back and understand
decisions that were made. It also gives ■ The chat option may be removed, Some platforms have a “hand up”
depending on what way you want to function. If possible, this should be used.
those who couldn’t attend the meeting an
manage interaction with attendees.
opportunity to watch back later. Your platform options
■ Although questions can be asked There are a range of platform options to
Prior to the meeting... during an AGM, they should be related choose from, depending on the size of
There are a few important things to think specifically to items on the agenda. your club. Here are three:
about, even if your club has been using
■ Larger clubs may opt for premium
this technology for some time: functions: for example, a Zoom webinar ■ Zoom
■ Discuss the options of a virtual AGM offers options to conduct polls or votes. – Free with up to 100 delegates
with your committee and find out which An explanation of how to use these – Automatically ends after 40 minutes
platform best suits your club’s needs. functions should be set out at the start. It – Paid options allow unlimited time for
may also be useful to share a PowerPoint meetings
■ Make sure everyone you are planning to – Recording options available
have involved in the running of the slide showing the rules as people are
joining the meeting. – Available on various devices
meeting is comfortable with going online. – Screen-sharing and presenting options
■ Do a few trial runs ahead of time. Make ■ The Chairperson should take a roll call – Chat options
of those virtually present at the meeting, – Functions such as Zoom webinar
sure to identify potential problems such
and confirm a quorum. (with more functions for voting).
as if the internet signal goes down, or
people are not able to access it properly. ■ To make sure things run smoothly, have
Have a plan to deal with these issues. one person (the host) assigned to sharing ■ Microsoft Teams
the presentation and any documentation – Up to 50 users on a call
■ An AGM should be run in accordance as directed by the Chair (such as the – Recording options available
with the club’s constitution, especially in – Available on various devices
Chairperson’s report, Treasurer’s report,
terms of providing due notice to members – Screen-sharing and presenting options
nominated committee members,
and providing papers and a request for – Group and private messaging possible.
proposed changes to the constitution,
motions and nominations.
etc).
■ The committee, particularly the ■ Google Hangouts
Chairperson and Secretary, should plan in Voting options – Maximum of 150 users on a call
advance how the meeting will run and There are many ways to manage voting, (10 on a video call)
who will be responsible for different depending on the functions you have – Available on numerous devices
functions – the same as for a face-to-face available: – Screenshare available
meeting but with different roles. ■ You can use the ‘raise your hand’ – Call recording available
– Your need a Google account to
Photograph: Gtitit WMIL
function to confirm (or reject) a Yes vote
■ Ask members to confirm attendance or other proposal, similar to what you organise a Google Hangouts meeting
ahead of time. This will also be an – Options of platforms depending on
would do in a face-to-face meeting.
opportunity to find out what questions the size of your club.
they might want to raise at the AGM. And ■ You can use the chat box for each
it will give those who might be shy about individual to confirm their vote. Or you ➤ For more information on how to run an
speaking online an opportunity to raise could use a paid-for function to conduct AGM and what should be covered, see our
their questions in advance. a voting poll. Club Handbook at www.bit.ly/3nCZdEr ■
10 Irish Mountain Log Winter 2020Crossword
Basecamp Christmas Competition
Win a great double-prize from Basecamp if your correct completed entry is the first drawn from the hat!
1 2 3 4 5 Clues Across
1 Strong winds (5).
3 Very thin gap in rock formation used by climbers
to find purchase on rock faces (5).
6 7
6 Nationality of peaks such as Scafell Pike (7).
7 Long, snake-like fish found in Irish waters (3).
8 Very strong wire to carry gondola to ski slope (5).
10 Watery discharge from nose or eyes (5).
12 Not off (2).
8 9 10 11 13 In short, South Africa (1,1).
14 Longest continental mountain range in the world (5).
12 13 17 Famous Antarctic explorer from Annascaul (5).
18 Mourne mountain, sounds like poultry (3).
CROSSWORD compiled by CÓILÍN MacLOCHLAINN
14 15 16 17 19 Land of the free, home of the brave (7).
20 Crevices, often associated with crannies (5).
21 Transmits and receives broadcasts (5).
Clues Down
18 19
1 Strenuous horseshoe hillwalk in the Twelve Bens (11).
2 An English county (5).
3 Ireland’s third highest peak, located in the Reeks (5).
4 Very narrow ridge separating two valleys (5).
20 21 5 Highest mountain on African continent (11).
9 Female found in bannister (3).
11 Denali is this country’s highest peak (1,1,1).
15 Australian wild dog (5).
16 Coverings to protect shoes from wet while walking (5)
17 Cape island in very south-west of Ireland (5).
WIN
Two baselayers
(men’s or women’s)
– Oasis Icebreaker top
(€89.95) and Oasis
leggings (€79.95) –
together worth
€169.90
Icebreaker Men’s 200 Oasis
Long Sleeve Crewe Top
plus Men’s Icebreaker Oasis Leggings
Icebreaker Women’s 200 Oasis Crewe Top
plus Women’s Icebreaker Oasis Leggings
How to enter
Complete this crossword correctly and be in with a chance to win a prize worth €169.90 from Basecamp
Outdoor Store, Jervis Street, Dublin.
Cut out this page, or photocopy or scan it, and send your completed entry to The Editor, Irish Mountain Log,
Mountaineering Ireland, Irish Sport HQ, National Sports Campus, Blanchardstown, Dublin 15, or by email to
info@mountaineering.ie, to arrive not later than Friday, January 29th, 2021. Don’t forget to include your full
name, address and membership number with your entry as well as a telephone number or email address at
where you can be contacted. The winner will be announced in the Spring 2021 issue of the Irish Mountain Log.
Basecamp Outdoor Store, Dublin Competition prizes
Website: www.basecamp.ie Basecamp’s generous prize comprises a set of men’s or women’s Icebreaker Oasis Crewe baselayers
#
(top and leggings), a prize worth €169.90.
Winter 2020 Irish Mountain Log 11NEWSL0G
2020 Lynam Medal
Dr Clare O’Leary, the renowned Irish mountaineer
and adventurer, was presented with the 2020 Lynam
Medal in October 2020 by Mike Maunsell, Chair of
Mountaineering Ireland’s Lynam Lecture Working
Group, in Clonmel, Co Tipperary, where she lives.
to the Greater Ranges and an
outstanding voluntary
contribution to the
development of adventure
sports in Ireland. Joss was
known to many Irish and
international walking
enthusiasts for his hillwalking
guidebooks. He was also the
Editor of the Irish Mountain Log
magazine for almost 20 years.
Joss continued as the Literary Mike Maunsell presents Clare O’Leary with the 2020 Lynam Medal
By Patrick O’Sullivan Editor of the magazine up to
the time of his death. from Bandon, Co Cork. She had to turn back between
The Mountaineering Ireland Since it was inaugurated in trained in UCC as a medical Camps 2 and 3 because of
Lynam Lecture was 2011, the Mountaineering doctor and now practices as a a stomach upset, or
Photographs: Mike Maunsell Collection (medal, and medal presentation), Irish Everest Team 2004 (Clare on Khumbu Glacier)
inaugurated in 2011 in memory Ireland Lynam Lecture has consultant gastroenterologist gastroenteritis, as she might
of Joss Lynam (1924-2011), one been delivered by leading and general physician in the say!
of Ireland’s best-known national and international South Tipperary General Clare returned in 2004 with
mountaineers, in recognition mountaineers: 2011, Harish Hospital in Clonmel. Despite the Irish Wyeth Everest
of his enormous Kapadia; 2012, Dawson Stelfox; her busy career, she has still Expedition, when she
achievements in hillwalking, 2013, Stephen Venables; 2014, managed to take time out to succeeded in climbing Mount
climbing and mountaineering Clare Sheridan; 2015, Ines go on various expeditions Everest via the South Col route
in Ireland and overseas over Papert; 2016, Paul Swail and around the world since her with Pat Falvey, Pemba Gyalje,
some sixty years. During his John McCune; 2017, Frank success on Everest. and four other Sherpas. Prior to
lifetime, Joss initiated Nugent; 2018, Paddy O’Leary; that success, she had already
numerous developments in and 2019, Sir Chris Bonington. Everest attempts climbed Kilimanjaro,
these different areas of our All of these have been inspiring Her first attempt at Everest Aconcagua, Mount Cook and
sport and was an inspiration lectures that have reflected on was in 2003, when, ironically Island Peak to see how she
to a number of generations of the development of various for a gastroenterologist, she reacted to altitude and to hone
Irish mountaineers. aspects of our sport and how it
Joss Lynam’s achievements might progress in coming years.
included participating in many In light of the ongoing
mountaineering expeditions restrictions as a result of the
Covid-19 pandemic, it was
decided that it would not be
possible to organise a formal
presentation for this year’s
Lynam Lecture and that the
2020 Lynam Medal should be
awarded to Dr Clare O’Leary
on merit alone.
The first Irish woman to
summit on Everest (8,848m) in
2004, and the first to climb an
8,000m peak, Clare has
continued to push the
boundaries ever since then of
what has been achieved by
Irish mountaineers.
Joss Lynam in 2005 Clare O’Leary on the Khumbu Glacier below Mount Everest
Clare O’Leary is originally
12 Irish Mountain Log Winter 2020both poles. Since 2014, with
climate change and the
melting of the old ice at the
North Pole, it has become
almost impossible to ski there,
as the new ice is unstable,
insurance is unaffordable and
it is impossible for planes to
land on the ice in an
emergency.
After their 2012 attempt to
get to the North Pole was
called off, Clare and Mike
Photographs: Irish Everest Team 2004 (Everest photo), Mike O’Shea (South Pole Expedition), Valerie O’Connor (Clare at work), The Southern Star (Clare with honorary degree)
O’Shea began an ongoing
series of expeditions which
Clare looking towards the Hillary Step and the summit of Everest
they called the Ice Project and
in which they intended to
her high-altitude climbing Solu Khumbu in Nepal. make crossings of all of the
skills. In general, she has not In 2007, Clare skied across world’s major ice-caps. This Clare O’Leary at work
experienced any serious the Greenland ice-cap. The has included crossings of the
problems at altitude, apart next year, at the age of thirty- Mike Maunsell, Chair of the
Greenland ice-sheet, the
from perhaps developing mild five, Clare became the first Lynam Lecture Working Group,
Northern Patagonian ice-field
headaches on summit days. woman to ski to the South Clare said, “It is a very great
and Lake Baikal in Siberia.
Pole. She went there with honour to receive such a
However, this has also been
The Seven Summits Pat Falvey on his Beyond impacted by climate change
prestigious award from
After climbing Everest, in Endurance Expedition, Mountaineering Ireland. I have
and they have had to abandon
2005, Clare went on to be the together with Jonathan been lucky enough to travel all
the project.
first Irish woman to complete Davies and Shaun Menzies. over the world on expeditions in
In 2016, they cycled
the Seven Summits, the The team of four undertook the past number of years. These
2,500km through China,
highest mountain on each the two-month-long have often been physically and
finishing in Tibet. The following
continent. She climbed Denali, expedition, hauling all of their mentally tough, but I always
year, Clare climbed Baruntse
Elbrus and Kosciuszko, and gear in some of the harshest loved the challenges they
(7,129m) and Mera Peak
finished with Mount Vinson in conditions on the planet, with presented. On each of these
(6,500m) in Nepal. In 2018, she
that year, having already sub-zero temperatures and expeditions, I worked as part of
did the Lunana Snowman trek
climbed Kilimanjaro, constant snowstorms. a team and I always had the
in Bhutan, 350km over
Aconcagua and Everest itself. Clare’s attempts to reach support at home of great
thirteen high mountain
That put her among the the North Pole unfortunately training partners, mentors,
passes, and last year she was
twenty women worldwide that have all been thwarted. Her family and friends. I am grateful
climbing in Peru.
had completed one or other of fourth attempt was in 2014 to all of them for their support.
Looking to the future, Clare,
the Seven Summits lists by with fellow adventurer Mike Thank you to Mountaineering
who still trains five or six days
that time. In 2006, she O’Shea. If successful, Clare Ireland for awarding me the
a week by running or cycling,
became the first Irish woman would have been only the 2020 Lynam Medal” ■
says that she has turned to ski
to climb Ama Dablam, an second woman to climb the mountaineering as a way of
iconic peak near Everest in the Seven Summits and reach continuing to explore the
world’s remote places.
With such an impressive list
of achievements, Clare
O’Leary’s endeavours already
have been recognised
variously in Ireland and she
was awarded an honorary
doctorate in law by NUI
Galway. Mountaineering
Ireland is now recognising her
contribution to our sport and
to the participation of women
in mountaineering and
exploration by awarding her
the 2020 Mountaineering
Ireland Lynam Medal.
Following the presentation
of her medal in October by Clare on receiving an honorary
Clare O’Leary on the way to the South Pole doctorate in law from NUI Galway
Winter 2020 Irish Mountain Log 13NEWSL0G
Jason Byrne
National Walking
Day a great success
An estimated 700,000 people took part in
National Walking Day on September 27th
By Linda Sankey, 220,000 people watching the
Get Ireland Walking show. Partners, stakeholders, other National Governing
We would expect many Local Sports Partnerships Bodies and Local Sports
The first National Walking Day people not to engage with the and groups affiliated with Get Partnerships, to use in their
in Ireland took place on hashtags – older adults, for Ireland Walking and efforts to communicate
Sunday, September 27th, 2020, example – which would Mountaineering Ireland were effectively with their target
as part of the European Week suggest that the numbers all invited and encouraged to populations.
of Sport. An estimated actually participating on the participate in National Comedian Jason Byrne,
700,000 people took part in day may have been much Walking Day. They all engaged Dublin footballer and All-
the day. That was estimated higher than that stated above. in various ways and shared Ireland winner Kevin
through the hashtags that Furthermore, schools were our message and campaign McManamon, and camogie
were posted on social media also invited to participate across their platforms and All-Ireland winner and player
on the day. throughout European Week of membership. A case study is Niamh Kilkenny all featured
now underway to highlight in professional videos to
the success of the campaign promote the day,
nationally and the impact encouraging people to
Katrina McGirr that it had through using #WalkYourArea and
creative, paid social media #WalkYourTown, and find
advertisements, which were #HiddenGems. Jason even
viewed over 4,700,000 times advised people to bring their
throughout the campaign. grannies with them!
Other indications of the We also had professional
initiative’s success included videos of Charlie Burke from
the traffic flow to our Coillte, Katrina McGirr from
website, with close to 50,000 Waterways Ireland and Ruth
hits, which also Whelan from Mountaineering
We were trending in Ireland Sport and more than 800 demonstrated the success of Ireland, shot in Coillte and
on Twitter most of the day and primary schools registered the campaign. Waterways Ireland amenities,
had a phenomenal response to with Get Ireland Walking for We aim to use the case asking walkers to be
the feature on RTÉ I’s that week, which would study as a model for responsible outdoors and to
Nationwide programme about represent over 200,000 contemporary be considerate!
National Walking Day on the children who engaged in communication with our For more about this
evening of Wednesday, activities, including walking, market but also to act as a initiative check out
September 23rd, with over that week. toolkit for partners, including www.getirelandwalking.ie ■
Kevin McManamon Niamh Kilkenny
Photographs: Get Ireland Walking
14 Irish Mountain Log Winter 2020Take our 21-Day Walking Challenge
Get Ireland Walking has an incentive to help you make walking part of your daily routine
● Talk to your doctor about getting active at your next visit.
● You could also check out the health promotion
organisations for advice on your illness and walking.
So you might not be able to get out and go to your favourite hills
and crags now, unless you are very lucky where you live – so why
not try something easier and closer to home, to help you keep
fit and for your own well-being?
Get Ireland Walking has developed an easy 21-Day Walking
Challenge, which is perfect timing right now, given the current
restrictions! You can easily walk in your area or town and, by the
end of the 21 days, you will definitely want to continue to walk ● Walking is one of the easiest ways to get active.
regularly! ● You can set your own pace and the length of your walk.
● Over time, you can gradually increase both of these.
Your excuses, our advice
● It is never too late to start walking.
● It only takes thirty minutes of your time to do a walk that
will help to maintain your health. ● Walking regularly can help to maintain your physical health.
● Just go out the door and start walking – there is no extra
time needed to travel to a venue or to prepare.
● Try to fit walking into your daily routine or use it as an Set a target
opportunity to meet a friend and catch up. Let family and
friends know about your plans and ask them to help you to
stick to the routine.
Photographs: Get Ireland Walking
AUTHOR: Linda Sankey is Communications
Officer with Get Ireland Walking. Get Ireland
Walking is an initiative of Sport Ireland,
supported by Healthy Ireland and hosted
● Try fitting in a walk when you feel most energetic – this and delivered by Mountaineering Ireland.
could be early in the day. FIND OUT MORE: To find out more about Get
Ireland Walking, visit the website
● Walking will actually give you more energy. Try it out and www.getirelandwalking.ie, contact us on
notice the difference in your energy levels for the day. (01) 625 1109 or email Linda Sankey at
info@getirelandwalking.ie.
Winter 2020 Irish Mountain Log 15NEWSL0G
“Visitors can leave their ‘Stamp’ on the National
Famine Way, a new 165km trail in Ireland that
doubles as a history lesson ... connecting cyclists
and walkers with Ireland’s emigrant past.” –
Condé Nast Traveller
National Famine Way launched
Historic 165km trail follows in emigrants’ footsteps during the Famine
By Charlotte O’Connor, with signposting and Park, 12-year-old Daniel
Communications Officer, trailheads along the route. Tighe, who remarkably
Irish Heritage Trust The new 14-page National survived the horrific journey
Famine Way Passport & to Canada on one of the
A new interactive outdoor Guide (together with the OSi worst Famine ships. The route
experience, the National map) highlights local of the National Famine Way is
Famine Way, was launched in historical landmarks and marked by bronze sculptures Bronze shoes mark each stage
September, together with a allows walkers and cyclists to of a pair of children’s shoes along the route
‘passport’ and an OSi map of record their progress with 27 (see photo). These evocative
the route. The National Famine Stage Stamps along the shoes symbolise the hopeful The Passport & Guide
Way is an accredited 165km specially developed route. journey that the 1,490 explains the historical and
Heritage and Arts Trail from The new Passport & Guide emigrants embarked on, cultural landmarks along the
Strokestown Park, Co is centred around the journey especially taking in the fact route, broken down into
Roscommon, through six of one of the original Famine that two-thirds of them were distinct sections, from 1km to
counties to Dublin, mostly walkers from Strokestown children. 15km, through Roscommon,
following the Royal Canal. Longford, Westmeath, Meath,
A completion certificate is Kildare and Fingal and finally
awarded at the end of the trail ending in Dublin city centre.
at EPIC, The Irish Emigration Caroilin Callery of the
Museum, where the Famine National Famine Museum
replica ship, the Jeanie and the Irish Heritage Trust,
Johnston, is located. which cares for the property,
The trail, which goes along commented: “As walkers
flat and well-surfaced paths, experience the natural
details the ill-fated journey of beauty of the National
1,490 emigrants, who walked Famine Way Heritage Trail,
from Strokestown Park to the Passport & Guide and OSi
ships in Dublin in 1847, at the map incentivises them to
Photographs: National Famine Museum
height of the Famine. With its explore lesser-known
captivating layers of history sections by slowly unfolding
and culture, the trail is the rich local history wrapped
designed to be accessible to in the journey of the Famine
families, schools, casual emigrants.
walkers and cyclists, through “They will also be reminded
to Famine and history of our history through a mix
enthusiasts. of evocative storytelling,
It offers a safe, recreational song, art installations and
option available 365 days a cultural centres along the
Walkers by the Royal Canal on the National Famine Way
year, in a self-guided format route. The Passport & Guide
16 Irish Mountain Log Winter 2020brings the historical journey
of the 1,490 Famine
emigrants alive by allowing
walkers to follow in their
footsteps 173 years later.”
Describing what walkers
and families are likely to
experience, John O’Driscoll,
general manager of the
National Famine Museum at
Strokestown Park, said: “We
look forward to welcoming
official walkers, starting from
the National Famine Museum,
where they can get a real
understanding of the Famine.
The official Passport & Guide
includes a 10% discount on
the entrance fee for the
National Famine Museum, as
well as the Jeanie Johnston
replica Famine ship at EPIC,
The Irish Emigration Museum, OSi has produced a trail map for each county along the route: this is the one for Westmeath
and other museums along
the route.” Museum, Waterways Ireland developed and will be ➤ For more information see
The National Famine Way is and county councils along launched in the coming www.nationalfamineway.ie and
an integrated collaboration the route. A National Famine months. www.strokestownpark.ie ■
between the National Famine Way App is currently being
‘Happy Hiking’ campaign announced
New Mountaineering Ireland initiative distributes advice to walkers on how to stay safe
initiated by Mountaineering Happy Hiking material will be a free scanner app. You will be
Ireland’s Hillwalking useful resource for all and will brought directly to the
Committee, originally with the include advice on planning your Hillwalking section of the
intention of refreshing and walk, what to bring with you, Mountaineering Ireland website.
updating the Walk Safely getting a weather forecast, Here, you will find the Happy
leaflet, which had gone out of who to call in an emergency, Hiking leaflet in a digital format,
print. Since that leaflet was and so on. along with lots of other useful
issued, however, how we As well as distributing leaflets information on hillwalking.
communicate and circulate to tourist offices, clubs, Rural
➤ The Happy Hiking leaflet will
information has changed, Recreation Officers and other
be a valuable resource for clubs
particularly since the start of relevant bodies, we are also
to share with new or potential
the Covid-19 pandemic. It is making the leaflet available
members. If you are interested in
now very important to utilise digitally on the Mountaineering
receiving some Happy Hiking
the different platforms Ireland website,
leaflets and/or information in a
available to reach the right www.mountaineering.ie. digital format for your club’s
audiences. It will be accompanied by website or Facebook page, or if
Happy Hiking is aimed at all digital promotional tools, which you know of other organisations
users of trails and uplands, but will be shared widely across who you think might be
particularly first-time users, primary tourism platforms and interested in sharing this
novices and tourists. Each time through direct online material, contact
By Ruth Whelan, Hillwalking
Covid-19 restrictions were advertising targeting specific ruth@mountaineering.ie
Development Officer
eased, there was an above- audiences. for more details.
Mountaineering Ireland is normal influx of people to the QR codes have become more
delighted to announce the uplands. So providing popular and are being more ➤ This project was funded by
Happy Hiking campaign, an information on how to stay safe widely used this year, so we the Department of Rural and
initiative to promote safe when walking in the Irish hills have incorporated a QR code Community Development
walking in the Irish hills and and countryside has never on the back of the leaflet. through FORUM Connemara and
countryside. This project was been more important. The Simply scan the code using a by Mountaineering Ireland ■
Winter 2020 Irish Mountain Log 17NEWSL0G
Gathering sheep in the MacGillycuddy Reeks
Kerry UNESCO Biosphere Reserve now active
Reeks European Innovation Project tackling spread of rhododendron
By Eleanor Turner, Kerry Areas (SPAs), Special Areas of biosphere designation does resources we have here on
Biosphere Officer Conservation (SACs) and not impose further land-use our doorsteps in Kerry.
proposed Natural Heritage constraints on these areas, One project that is taking
Kerry is home to one of only Areas (pNHAs). Ireland’s SACs rather it supports the action within the Kerry
two UNESCO-designated and SPAs form part of the EU conservation status, Biosphere area is the
Biosphere Reserves in Ireland. Natura 2000 network of celebrates the area’s culture MacGillycuddy Reeks
The Kerry Biosphere Reserve important ecological sites. and, on a global scale, shows European Innovation Project
is located in the heart of the It is notable that the the significance of the natural (Reeks EIP). The Reeks EIP
Kingdom. It was originally project aims to improve the
named the Killarney National sustainability and economic
Park Biosphere Reserve in viability of farming through
1982. The reserve underwent practical actions and
a review process in 2017, innovative solutions to
which resulted in an increase address issues and to protect
Photographs: Valerie O’Sullivan (gathering sheep), Trisha Deane (habitat training group)
in the area covered and an biodiversity in this Natura
accompanying name change. 2000 area.
The Kerry Biosphere Reserve, Landowners in the
as it is now called, covers an MacGillycuddy Reeks face
area of approximately 65,760 increasingly difficult
hectares. challenges in farming this
Biosphere Reserves are unique upland landscape.
learning places for Encompassing over 8,000
sustainable development. hectares of Natura-
They are sites for testing designated, privately-owned
interdisciplinary approaches land, rising to a height of
to understanding and 1,039 metres, farming in the
managing changes and MacGillycuddy Reeks is
interactions between social labour-intensive and
and ecological systems, economically unviable. With
including conflict prevention over 125,000 people visiting
and management of the Reeks annually to climb
biodiversity. They are places Ireland’s highest mountain,
that provide local solutions to recreational use adds to the
global challenges. challenges.
The Kerry Biosphere Aiming to address these
Reserve includes areas that issues, the Reeks EIP team is
are subject to several existing working with 33 farmers in
environmental designations the area. They have
Habitat awareness training with EIP project participants
including Special Protection developed a results-based
18 Irish Mountain Log Winter 2020You can also read
