Working for and representing hillwalkers and climbers

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ANNUAL REVIEW 2011 Contact Details Staff (Sport HQ, Dublin)

Karl Boyle Chief Officer Telephone 00 353 (0)1 625 1115 [email protected] MI Board and Sub Committees Terry Canavan Mountaineering Ireland Board 2011 Accounts Administrator Telephone 00 353 (0)1 625 1115 Alan Tees President [email protected] Ruairí Ó Conchúir Chairperson David Batt Honorary Treasurer Una Feeney Sandra Kennedy Administrator Ronan Lenihan Telephone 00 353 (0)1 625 1115 Stephen McMullan [email protected] Ross Millar Honorary Secretary Jerry O’Dwyer Helen Lawless Patrick O’Sullivan Hillwalking, Access & Conservation Officer Dawson Stelfox Telephone 00 353 (0)1 625 1115 [email protected] Bord Oiliúint Sléibhe/Irish Mountain Neal McQuaid Training Board Members 2011 Talent Development Officer Telephone 00 353 (0)1 625 1117 Ronan Lenihan Chairperson [email protected] Andy Callan Calvin Torrans Nicole Mullen Colin Gibbon Training Administrator Charlie McManus Telephone 00 353 (0)1 625 1117 Orla Prendergast [email protected] Shay Walsh Alun Richardson Alun Richardson Secretary Training Officer Telephone 00 353 (0)1 625 1117 Access & Conservation GROUP [email protected] Members 2011

Ross Millar Chairperson Jack Bergin Staff (Tollymore Mountain Centre, Pat Ewen County Down) Milo Kane Vincent McAlinden Paul Swail Peter Norton Youth Development Officer Frank Nugent Telephone 00 44 (0)28 4372 5354 Ruairí Ó Conchúir From RoI: 048 4372 5354 Ena Rafferty [email protected] Helen Lawless Secretary

Mountaineering Ireland promotes the principles of Leave No Trace.

Mountaineering Ireland Limited is a Company Limited by Guarantee. Registered in Dublin No 199053. Registered Office: Sport HQ, 13 Joyce Way, Park West Business Park, Dublin 12, Ireland. Contents

MI ANNUAL REVIEW 2011 2

CHAIRPERSON’S ADDRESS 3

ACCESS AND CONSERVATION 4

YOUTH 8

PERFORMANCE DEVELOPMENT 10

TRAINING and SAFE PRACTICE 12

COMMUNICATIONS and SERVICES 14

RESOURCE UTILISATION 16 MI ANNUAL REVIEW 2011

While Mountaineering Ireland’s and support in 2011. This offering was membership continued to rise in 2011, reflected in increased attendance and efforts made during the year will see good participation in workshops and a significant growth during 2012 with discussions. This will be continued new clubs in the process of joining into the future delivering events that and the return of the Irish Ramblers celebrate our upland environment, Club. This demonstrates the continued bring opportunities for learning and growth of our community and an support a true hillwalking and climbing effective MI serving all hillwalkers and community. climbers by being a strong voice on many issues including the threat of the During 2011 MI embarked on a review sale of Coillte, the outputs of Comhairle of its Events Policy. The process of na Tuaithe and providing benefits of engagement with members through real meaning to our membership, many channels was rewarding with from the Irish Mountain Log to robust quality feedback and good attendance insurance policies. The Irish Mountain at club forums throughout Ireland. Log reached the milestone of issue 100 The new policy will be put before the during 2011, which is a magnificent membership at the 2012 AGM. feat for the core group of volunteers Mountain Meitheal’s inspiring MI’s gatherings that have supported its delivery over “ commitment to our upland the last 25 years. environment was recognised on the and meets had a MI’s aims for 2011 were to: European stage in 2011 when it took second place in the European Ramblers stronger focus on  Represent the interests of Association’s ECO Awards. The effort of walkers and climbers. Mountain Meitheal is now stimulating the prospect of other Meitheals  Improve and secure access to club development and forming. the Irish hills and crags. Again, it is the huge number of support in 2011. This  Promote mountain training volunteers throughout our clubs that and safe practice. offering was reflected makes MI effective. I sincerely thank  Encourage conservation and all the members for their commitment responsible use of the mountain during 2011 and MI looks forward to in increased attendance environment. supporting your activities, answering your questions and bringing new and good participation  Support members, and opportunities to our community. especially young people, in skills in workshops and development.  Provide appropriate services discussions and effective communications to members. ” MI’s gatherings and meets had a Karl Boyle, stronger focus on club development Chief Officer

Mountaineering Ireland gratefully acknowledges the funding it receives from The Irish Sports Council, Sport Northern Ireland and the Women in Sport programme. 2 CHAIRPERSON’S ADDRESS

A Year of Major Milestones – It has Perhaps the highlight of 2011 was been a tremendous privilege to serve Issue 100 of the Irish Mountain Log. as Chairperson of Mountaineering The edition, marking 25 years of Ireland (MI) during 2011 – the final publication, was a very significant calendar year of my tenure as chair. milestone for both the magazine and The Board is filled with a sense of MI. It was a remarkable achievement. deep pride reflecting on what has The volunteer editorial team put in an been achieved in 2011. It has been incredible amount of effort and they a year of continued growth, with deserve credit for providing us with the organisation now servicing the what I believe is the premium national needs of almost 11,000 members and governing body magazine in Europe. many more new clubs and members preparing to join in 2012. I also want to thank MI clubs for hosting the Spring and Autumn The general election in the Republic Gatherings in 2011. These wonderful and the Northern Ireland Assembly events were brought about through elections provided a timely opportunity the vibrancy and commitment of club for MI to engage with all political members. I want to thank all who parties regarding our key priorities as supported the provision of training outlined in our Strategic Development and our Winter and Alpine meets. I Chief amongst our Plan. In the Republic, our campaign want to pay special thanks to MI staff “ focused on the retention of Coillte in members, North and South, who thoughts is Joss Lynam state ownership. While this resulted continue to help you as a member get in a Dáil statement that Coillte would the most out of your membership. In not be sold this campaign goes on, addition, I wish to convey my deep (1924 – 2011). Joss was as speculation continues that Coillte appreciation to our funders, the Irish will be sold in some form. MI remains Sports Council and Sport Northern a Giant of a Mountain adamant that there is nothing more Ireland, who have continued to strategically important than access support us in these difficult economic Man in every respect. by future generations to outdoor times. recreation. Coillte’s importance is not May he rest in peace simply as a provider of recreational Finally, I want to remember all those infrastructure or forest parks. What is members who passed away during ” considerably more important, from a 2011. Chief amongst our thoughts hillwalking perspective, is the access is Joss Lynam (1924 – 2011). Joss that the Coillte estate provides onto was a Giant of a Mountain Man the majority of Ireland’s uplands. in every respect. He was a great advocate for Ireland’s uplands and his The vast majority of MI members contribution to promoting the sport will be unaware of the world of of mountaineering and developing competition climbing. Great progress rural recreation in Ireland continues to has been made in 2011 by a growing have a very positive impact throughout number of young climbers from Cork Ireland. Mountaineering Ireland to Belfast. Dominic Burns, a 14 year is commemorating Joss through a old from Belfast, is now ranked in the number of projects, including, the top 15 in the world in his category. This Lynam Lecture and a Hillwalking is something MI is immensely proud Guidebook to Ireland’s high mountains. of. Our relationship with Scouting May he rest in peace. Ireland continues to grow and this, together with our Youth Participation, Training and Development Programmes, is preparing the ground for future generations of Ruairí Ó Conchúir mountaineers. Chairperson

3 ACCESS AND CONSERVATION MI’s work on access and conservation is focused on SECURING ACCESS meetings taking place in the final two core objectives: quarter. MI maintained contact MI’s AIM with the RRS and contributed to the To secure continued access agreement of a programme of 10 to mountain areas and crags. As the national representative priority actions for 2012. body for hillwalkers and climbers, To promote the conservation MI’s policy is that we are seeking and responsible use of the reasonable access for responsible Mountain Access Scheme users. Our aim is to have open, mountain environment. unrestricted access on foot to The Mountain Access Scheme unenclosed hills, mountains and currently being piloted by Comhairle During 2011 many MI coastal areas throughout Ireland. na Tuaithe, on Carrauntoohil and at members contributed to Where there isn’t direct access to Binn Shléibhe (Mount Gable) near our work towards these these areas from the public road, Clonbur, has the potential to provide a framework for the management of objectives, through roles access should be achieved via routes leading from the public roads and access. Agreement in principle has on MI, club and other car parks, through or around the been reached on a State indemnity committees, and through enclosed fields out onto the open scheme for private landowners in personal action to protect hillside. Mountaineering Ireland Mountain Access Areas. MI has urged pursues its access aim, primarily Comhairle na Tuaithe to formalise the access and the mountain Mountain Access Scheme and extend environment. This collective through involvement in Comhairle na Tuaithe (the Countryside Council) and the pilot to at least six other areas effort is vital if MI is to the Countryside Access & Activities in 2012 so that the viability of the deliver on its objectives. Network (CAAN) in NI, and through scheme is fully tested. building relationships with other The access and conservation upland stakeholders. efforts of MI volunteers ACCESS & LIABILITY INFORMATION are supported by MI Comhairle na Tuaithe MI drafted a public information staff, including a full-time leaflet on the subject of access Hillwalking, Access & Following the change of government, and occupiers liability to deal Conservation Officer, the Rural Recreation Section (RRS) with the main questions and which supports Comhairle na Tuaithe, misunderstandings that arise for both Helen Lawless. transferred to the Department of landowners and recreational users in Environment, Community and Local the Republic of Ireland. This leaflet Government, as a result, Comhairle should be published by Comhairle na met just twice in 2011, with both Tuaithe in the first half of 2012. 4 NORTHERN IRELAND level to secure access is based on that an up-to-date opinion be sought a comprehensive and up-to-date on how to deal with the erosion of MI has continued to work through understanding of the situation on the Devil’s Ladder. Elfyn Jones, the CAAN and Sport NI to improve the the ground. BMC’s Access & Conservation Officer access situation in Northern Ireland. for Wales who has experience of MI contributed to Sport NI’s research upland path management, made a on access and occupiers liability, PROMOTING CONSERVATION brief study visit to Carrauntoohil and which is informing the preparation of his recommendations were presented a 10-year Action Plan for the further to MI members in the south west in development of Outdoor Recreation in MI’s AIM November 2011. With the backing of Northern Ireland. MI’s work on conservation focuses on local clubs, repair of the Ladder will be discussed with the landowners on MI joined with other organisations in protecting the quality and character of Carrauntoohil early in 2012. seeking to have the coastal path from the mountain and coastal environment. Ballycastle to taken in charge In addition to a number of policy In meeting with members across as a public right of way, a campaign submissions, MI’s activities in 2011 the country, it was clear that upland which was successful. included: path erosion is a concern in many areas. An important principle in considering this, is that path repair ACCESS ISSUES Mountain environment leaflet or construction in the uplands should only be carried out for the purpose MI dealt with a number of access issues To help improve environmental of erosion management to protect across the country during the summer awareness amongst hillwalkers, MI the environment, and not from the of 2011, typically working through local worked with the National Parks & perspective of making it easier to walk members and with other agencies to Wildlife Service (NPWS) and other in the mountains. The quality of work resolve matters. One thread that ran partners to prepare a leaflet on carried out and materials used are through more than half of the recent Wicklow’s Mountain Environment. vital. Rough machined tracks across access problems was a failure to A draft was circulated at MI events hillsides show the negative impact that communicate well with landowners. An in 2011 and the final version will be inappropriate work can have on upland important lesson from this experience published in 2012. landscapes. is that it takes a lot more time and energy to resolve issues than to Members also made MI aware of the prevent them in the first place. UPLAND PATH EROSION development of marked walking routes in some upland areas. The introduction We urge MI members to contact us In March 2011, based partly on of marker posts and trail furniture into for advice and support on access feedback from members, MI produced an otherwise natural environment issues, plus this flow of information a position paper about path erosion on reduces the sense of wildness in upland ensures that MI’s work at national Carrauntoohil, which recommended areas and gives walkers a false sense of security. MI supports the long-standing National Trails Office (NTO) policy to avoid marked routes above 300m for safety and environmental reasons and made a strong submission seeking retention of this policy in the NTO’s new trail planning guidelines.

OFF-ROAD VEHICLE ACTIVITY Despite a lull in the early part of 2011 (perhaps due to publicity and new regulations in 2010) MI received a number of reports of off-road vehicle activity in upland areas in the latter part of 2011. MI members are urged to photograph damaged areas and send details of date and location to NPWS/ NIEA and to the MI office.

5 PROMOTING RESPONSIBLE USE publications and events. Vincent McAlinden represents MI on the Board Responsible enjoyment of the hills of Leave No Trace Ireland and also and countryside is an important value Chairs the Leave No Trace Education within MI and our sport and runs Advisory Group. During 2011 MI throughout much of our work. co-ordinated a project to develop Leave No Trace resources for primary schools. The resources are available on REVIEW OF EVENTS POLICY www.leavenotraceschools.org. In response to a growth in events such as walking festivals, adventure races, club challenges and fundraising MOUNTAIN TRAINING SCHEMES hikes, MI reviewed its policy on organised events in Ireland’s mountain Arising from recent revisions to the areas during 2011. After a call for Mountain Skills syllabus, a session submissions in the spring, a draft on Access and Conservation was policy was published and a series included in all BOS provider workshops of regional consultations took place during the year as well as the Club during October and November. A new Training Officers’ workshop in policy incorporating guidelines for November 2011. event organisers and participants will be put to MI’s AGM in March 2012 for approval. CLUB ENVIRONMENTAL OFFICERS MI encourages all its affiliated clubs to DOGS ON THE HILLS appoint a Club Environmental Officer (CEO) to help raise environmental Early in 2011, the problem of dogs awareness within the club and worrying sheep came to a head in provide a point of contact for MI. The the Cooley Mountains. MI facilitated number of clubs with CEOs increased a meeting between hillfarmers, from 50 to 85 in 2011. A total of representatives from clubs that walk in 40 people attended three regional the Cooleys and mountain-bikers, after training workshops for CEOs, with which a statement was published in input from environmental experts, the local media. This issue also arose Rural Recreation Officers, NPWS and in other upland areas and in spring Mountain Meitheal. It is MI’s hope 2011 MI issued a public appeal to that the CEO network will build to avoid taking dogs on the open hillside, become a strong grouping of MI other than with the landowner’s members working to protect the permission to do so. upland environment.

LEAVE NO TRACE submissions MI continued to support the Leave In accordance with its objectives and No Trace programme, with a financial policies, Mountaineering Ireland made contribution and by including the the following submissions during Leave No Trace message in MI 2011: 6  Wicklow County Council – responses affected by lack of funding. Late in PURE project to tackle litter and illegal to consultation on Tourism 2011, Sinead Gaughan was appointed dumping the Wicklow/Dublin uplands. and Land-use Plan for Laragh/ as MI’s representative on Coillte’s In conjunction with IUF, a committee was , Co. Wicklow – (Feb Social & Environmental panel for the formed to develop an application for an 2011 and Aug 2011). Connemara/Mayo district. EU LIFE project based on the sustainable management of upland vegetation.  Coillte – response to draft Strategic Plans for Coillte’s thirteen districts (April 2011). Irish Uplands Forum (IUF) Wicklow Mountains National  Louth County Council – response MI is represented on the Irish Uplands Park (WMNP) Council to planning application for Forum by Peter Norton and Ruairi O Rockmarshall windfarm, Cooley Conchúir. Following on the publication Wicklow Mountains National Park, like Mountains (June 2011). of IUF’s ‘Challenges, Changes and all public bodies, has been hit by severe Opportunities in the Irish Uplands’ cuts in its funding. Some activities  Forest Service (NI) – response to report in 2010, contact has been have been curtailed due to loss of staff draft bye-laws (June 2011). maintained with the three study and capital funding; this includes the areas, Sligo/Leitrim, Connemara and  Forest Service (ROI) – response national park council which only met the Comeraghs. IUF has also been to draft guidelines for prescribed informally on one occasion in 2011. working closely with the Wicklow burning (August 2011). However a formal meeting was held in Uplands Council to develop an EU January 2012 at which there was good  Department of Environment (NI) LIFE application for a project based on discussion. The issue of uncontrolled – response to consultation on best practice management of upland dogs on the hills was raised by enabling legislation for national vegetation so as to benefit biodiversity representatives from the farming parks in Northern Ireland (October and farming. community. Currently dogs are allowed 2011). in the national park, but a ban may have to be considered as uncontrolled dogs  Department of Arts, Heritage & Gaeltacht – response to issues paper Dublin Mountains Initiative (DMI) cause problems for ground nesting birds as well as farm animals. on National Landscape Strategy The DMI continues to participate in (November 2011). the Dublin Mountain Partnership, These submissions can be downloaded with Coillte and the local authorities. from the Access and Conservation Recreational developments through section of www.mountaineering.ie. 2011 included the ‘Plod’ half marathon held in July and the opening of a dedicated mountain bike trail at Ticknock. Unfortunately the Dublin Representation on other Mountaineer bus service became organisations a casualty of economic hard times. The Dublin Mountains Way is now MI’s work towards its access and in its second year and walking traffic conservation objectives is supported by continues to increase. DMI participated voluntary representatives on a number in consultations with community groups of other organisations. Brief feedback held during 2011. It is hoped these will from some of these is provided below: result in further improvements to the route. Milo Kane represents MI on the DMI. Coillte Social & Environmental Panel Wicklow Uplands Council (WUC) Pat Dignam, MI’s representative on Coillte’s Social & Environmental panel Feedback from Pearse Connolly indicates for the Eastern District reports that the that 2011 was a year of change within group met twice during 2011, with the WUC, with the retirement of Colin spring meeting focusing on the draft Murphy and the return of Cara Doyle, District Strategic Plan and the autumn in the role of Co-ordinator. Despite meeting being a field trip to see a budgetary challenges, a new strategic repaired bridge and trail construction plan was adopted, and good progress work on the Wicklow Way. Coillte’s was made with Wicklow County Council current capacity to provide or repair on winter weather emergency plans. recreation infrastructure is being WUC continues to contribute to the 7 YOUTH MI has continued to be focused YOUTH ALPINE INITIATIVE on making an impact on youth participation, not simply through MI provided a Youth Alpine opportunity membership but by developing as part of the 2011 Alpine Meet. leadership skills within our clubs Following selection and pre-Alpine and equally in other youth focused training with MI’s Youth and Training organisations. MI’s Youth Officer, Paul Officers, Robbie Fenlon delivered a Swail, coordinated a wide programme programme of training in the skills of during 2011, including Aspirant Alpinism. Mountaineers Workshops, a host of adventure trips for young people and a number of school-based initiatives as Scouting Ireland Developing leadership well as ongoing coordination of climbing “ classes, which continue to increase In 2010 Alan Tees described the in participation. relationship with Scouting Ireland as the in the third level “most important development in MI”. The ongoing success of this relationship colleges will be a was recognised during the Scouting ASPIRANT MOUNTAINEERS Ireland Hillwalking Conference and at a key component The Aspirant Mountaineers Workshops, number of leadership workshops held held in the Mourne and Wicklow during 2011. of the youth mountains, aimed to bring young Scouts throughout Ireland now leaders from our University Clubs are progressing through a 9 stage together to develop their Mountain hillwalking skills programme, which programme in Skills and improve their leadership skills. allows Scouts after stage 7 to go forward Participants in these workshops were for Mountain Skills Assessment. MI will coming years provided the opportunity to follow conduct a Train the Trainers workshop ” on to continue their development in with Scouting Ireland leaders in 2012. a winter mountaineering workshop in Scotland. Developing leadership in MI is in the processing of mapping a third level colleges will be a key similar pathway both for leaders and component of the youth programme participants with the Irish Girl Guides. in coming years. This programme is expected to be fully developed and hillwalking skills being delivered during the course of 2012.

8 Girls Outside Kerry Mountaineering Ireland’s Girls Outside Kerry project continued until May 2011. The project was successful in attracting more than 200 girls to hillwalking and rock climbing. Participants developed new skills, promoted leadership and all were encouraged to become involved in local clubs and continue their participation for life. The project was supported by local Kerry clubs and the Kerry Recreation and Sports Partnership.

9 PERFORMANCE “ Without continued DEVELOPMENT development of Angela Carlin moved on from MI Fundamentals opportunities for people during 2011 to establish Ireland’s first Climbing Centre, Gravity Climbing 2011 saw the continued rollout of to experience climbing, in Inchicore, Dublin. Angela’s ‘Fundamentals’ across Ireland, a commitment to both Talent and Youth programme which raises coaches’ Development was exceptional and all awareness of agility, balance, the development of associated with MI wish her the very coordination and of the body’s best in her new venture. Following on centre of gravity; important themes performance climbing from this, MI appointed Neal McQuaid underpinning climbing movement. as Talent Development Officer. As well More than 30 coaches attended would not have any as being a trained teacher, Neal brings ‘Fundamentals I’ and the first of the with him a depth of personal climbing ‘Fundamentals II’ workshops was also candidiates and training experience. delivered. This was complemented ” with a focused Coaching Workshop delivered by Ian Dunne. Coaching Development Without continued development National & International of opportunities for people to experience climbing, the development Competitions of performance climbing would not have any candidates. Clubs across YOUTH CLIMBING SERIES Ireland continued to develop, with support from MI, and improve their The Youth Climbing Series continued support structures for participants to expand throughout 2011 with an with opportunities to experience ever-increasing number of participants all disciplines of climbing, and also across the island of Ireland. One of supporting continued improvements the rounds, Tollymore, was the second in coaching for novice climbers. MI largest of its kind across Ireland is a partner in the development and and the UK during 2011. The four delivery of Coaching Awards and this qualifying events took place at UCD will to be a priority for MI in 2012. (Dublin), Mardyke (Cork), Hot

10 Rock (Tollymore) and Gortatole OEC (Fermanagh). The All-Ireland finals took place in Belfast, and from this 13 climbers went on to represent MI at the Great Britain and Irish finals in Coventry.

Irish Bouldering & Lead Championships The Irish Bouldering Championships took place for the second year running in Belfast. As in the previous year, there was a very high standard of competition. Jonny Argue and Katie Maxwell took 1st place in the senior finals, with Dominic Burns and Vanessa Woods becoming the 2011 junior champions. For the third year, the Irish Lead Climbing Championships took place in Play At Height, Dingle where Dominic Burns proved his standing winning both the senior and junior event, with Maggie Chojan and Niamh Hebblewaithe winning the senior and junior categories respectively.

Irish Bouldering League As ever the IBL continues to play a hugely important role in the climbing community, all of which is organised by a voluntary committee. Over 200 competitors took part in competitions at four rounds across the country. IBL participants and volunteers wish to express their gratitude to Nicole Mullen, who stepped down following this year’s league. Nicole has been the key driver of the IBL for a number of years. New volunteers are now required to continue the IBL’s success.

International Success 2011 was another phenomenal year for international competitors. Climbers from Ireland participated in a number of competitions across Europe, both at youth and senior level. The best result yet, a 6th, at European Youth level by Dominic Burns shows the continued dedication and quality of our competitors. 2011 saw five junior level and one senior competitor at international competitions.

11 TRAINING and SAFE PRACTICE

wALK SAFELY BOS AWARD Schemes MI and partners published a new Walk The continuing success of the Mountain Safely leaflet in 2012. It is a resource Skills (MS) scheme is reflected by the The provision of general for those who are new to walking in increasing numbers that take part in MS mountaineering safety advice the Irish hills and countryside, be training, the integration of it into the and the training of hillwalkers they tourists or friends, family and Scouting Ireland hillwalking programme and climbers are central to colleagues who want to get outdoors and FETAC. Following a visit by Mountain and benefit from the beauty of Ireland’s Leader Training (MLT) a similar scheme is the aims of MI and its training countryside. Walk Safely highlights also being piloted in the UK. sub-committee, Bord Oiliúint some tips which will give you confidence Sléibhe (BOS), the Irish and make your experience more The new provider agreement was finalised towards the end of 2011, Mountain Training Board. enjoyable. It also promotes responsible enjoyment of the Irish countryside. simplifying the information and the process to becoming a provider and The range of advice and maintaining it. BOS is keen to ensure training provided is broad CLUB Training Officers (CTO) that providership for the MS scheme is and covers all summer and workshops equally available to club members and winter mountaineering commercial providers. topics in Ireland and abroad, CTO workshops are designed to help designated CTOs develop skills and Registrations for Training including safety and the give greater confidence within their training of instructors and clubs. The CTO workshop in November Mountain Skills 602 leaders. The efforts of many 2011 was attended by seven club Mountain Leader 122 volunteers both on BOS and officers. those unnamed individuals Walking Group Leader 39 who help behind the scenes Single Pitch Award 141 Training Grants in clubs and within the course Multi Pitch Award 13 provider community is greatly During 2011 training grants were awarded to clubs to assist with their appreciated. training for MS, CTO and ML. MI encourages all clubs to consider applying BOS TRAINING Providers The stalwart efforts of MI for Training Grants to encourage and volunteers are supported support members to progress their BOS approves individuals to provide the by Nicole Mullen, Training skills and develop new leaders within various BOS training schemes. They may Administrator and Alun their clubs. be based in a club environment or work in a variety of locations, from Outdoor Richardson, Training Officer. Education Centres to privately owned businesses. At the end of 2011, 63 BOS providers had been approved to run a variety of BOS awards: 12 During 2011, five CPD workshops were was attended by Jon Garside of the BMC Approved Number of BOS Providers run for MS training and assessment, who praised the scheme highly and WGL, ML and SPA providers. MI has has since seen a similar workshop Mountain Skills 63 also simplified the process of fulfilling piloted in the UK. Mountain Skills Assessment 20 this requirement by enabling groups of providers to design their own CPD, the Single Pitch Award 11 first of these was organised by a group Support for MIA trainees of Kerry-based providers. Multi Pitch Award 6 Mountaineering Instructors (MIA Mountain Leader Training 13 and MIC) are an important link in the MOUNTAIN LEADER TRAINING (MLT) training and assessment of instructors Walking Group Leader Training 5 and leaders. To assist potential During 2011 BOS made a step closer candidates, and those progressing to becoming a full voting member through the MIA scheme, Dave of MLT. The awards administered in Gaughran assisted by Orla Prendergast, Moderation and Auditing Ireland were accepted by all the Home Clive Roberts, Sinead Pollock and Alun Nation Boards as being equivalent to Richardson ran a series of workshops Auditing occurs during routine checks of the awards run in the UK. It is hoped for prospective MIA candidates the paperwork received from providers, that during 2012 the constitutional culminating in training in North phone calls and feedback from issues will be resolved and BOS will be Wales. Congratulations to a number of students. Advice and help is provided accepted as a full voting member of these candidates who have gone on to via the Irish Mountain Log, newsletters, MLT UK and Republic of Ireland. successfully complete their MIA. CPD and moderations. During 2011 the Training Office focused on moderating assessments. A visit by John Cousins Training for future Providers Coaching Ireland (CI) and the of MLTUK confirmed that the schemes ‘Adventure Framework’ administered by BOS are of a very high Providers are fundamental to the standard. This is due in no small part success of MI’s aim to support MI has continued to progress the to the professionalism of the mountain skills development for hillwalkers, Adventure Framework with work training providers in Ireland and the work mountaineers and climbers in Ireland. ongoing on the alignment of both behind the scenes in the Training Office. The ‘Train the Trainers’ course is central the ML and SPA to the framework. to the process of becoming a provider. It is open to anyone holding the ML award During 2011 eleven BOS providers of Continual Professional and is designed to train and provide SPA, WGL and ML attended a Development (CPD) workshop guidance to award holders instructing Tutor Trainer assimilation run by CI. others. This was a first step towards their All providers are required to attend a Tutor Trainership, which will be minimum of one full CPD workshop Eight students attended the course at awarded following successful field during the three-year approval period. the end of January 2011. The course assessment.

13 COMMUNICATIONS and SERVICES

IRISH MOUNTAIN LOG Members Gatherings The Irish Mountain Log reached a the AND Meets The Women With milestone of issue 100, signifying 25 MI’s spring, autumn, winter and “ years of excellence in the reporting summer gatherings and meets are of our members’ activities and news Altitude movement is an important opportunity for our from around the world of hillwalking, community to gather together and climbing and mountaineering. The share experiences, knowledge and, aimed at facilitating passing of Joss Lynam, who was the most importantly, their passion for Log’s editor up to issue 50 and the the hills. Personal skills development women hillwalkers and literary editor until his death, was felt is an integral part of the winter profoundly by all those involved in the and summer meets particularly, Log. Issue 97 commemorated Joss’ climbers to share ideas, offering a chance for individuals to passing and was a celebration of his progress the range of their personal commitment to our sport. learn new skills, enjoy mountaineering experience and Under the editorship of Patrick O’ competencies. themselves and benefit Sullivan, the Log continues to ensure a balance within its content. The from mutual support. Irish Mountain Log editorial team encourages staff and volunteers alike to contribute to the quarterly journal This will be an ongoing and the editor wishes to congratulate all those who had articles published focus as part of during the course of 2011. The Irish Mountain Log’s distribution through MI’s Women in newsagents in Ireland has continued with stores in Northern Ireland now Sport initiative ” stocking it.

14 SPRING AND AUTUMN GATHERINGS SUMMER ALPINE MEET Library In March, the Spring Gathering brought The Summer Alpine Meet was held in MI has a growing collection of many new and old clubs together in Argentière, in the head of the Chamonix mountaineering and walking books and the Glen of Aherlow. The hosts, Galtee Valley, France. More than 75 participants guides. There are also many papers and Walking Club, Peaks Mountaineering Club enjoyed a range of workshops, courses, reports covering access and conservation and Ballyhoura Bears were instrumental individual challenges and a range of issues, safety issues and other general in it being such a positive event. A variety walks and ascents. The five-day Alpine information relating to Ireland. To search of activities and club development courses offered participants a chance the online library database go to the MI workshops were offered amongst a host for adventure at altitude. Due to poor website. of information sessions also. weather, unfortunately only one person reached the summit of Mont Blanc. The The Maumturks Walking Club hosted vast majority of the feedback from the a really lively Autumn Gathering in meets was overwhelmingly positive, Member Discounts October. They fostered a real sense however, some comments were made MI’s membership discount scheme of camaraderie in Leenane and the about the cost of travel to the meets. For weekend was blessed with some continued to grow in 2011 and there is 2012, it has been decided that the Alpine an ever increasing number of retailers, amazing weather and remarkable light Meet will take place in Val Masino, Italy. on the mountains. accommodation and transport providers amongst others who offer discounts Scottish Winter & Ski Meets on the presentation of a valid MI WOMEN WITH ALTITUDE membership card. Onich, Scotland was the location for The very firstWomen With Altitude event MI’s Winter Meet. The purpose was to was held in the Mourne Mountains in provide an opportunity for walkers and MEDIA ACTIVITY April 2011. The weekend was hosted by climbers to learn a wide range of winter MI in association with Gartan Outdoor skills including avalanche awareness, During 2011 MI cultivated relationships Education Centre. It was a weekend winter navigation, and climbing skills. with key media outlets and journalists. long celebration of women in the Thanks to Clive Roberts who directed The outcome of this is regular features mountains. There was an irrepressible the programme. and news items in Walking World Ireland, energy and enthusiasm which gave rise Irish Times Go section, TG4, Raidió na to an extremely enjoyable weekend, and MI’s ‘Ski Mountaineering and Snowshoe’ Gaeltachta, RTE Radio and TV News and plans for further events. The Women meet took place in Chamonix, others at regional level. With Altitude movement is aimed at France. The meet was aimed at skiers facilitating women hillwalkers and who wanted to improve their ski climbers to share ideas, learn new skills, mountaineering skills, learn avalanche enjoy themselves and benefit from recognition and avalanche search mutual support. This will be an ongoing techniques and do some ski touring. focus as part of MI’s Women in Sport The weather was good, the snow was initiative. adequate but the fun had was immense.

15 RESOURCE UTILISATION As highlighted at the 2011 Annual Thank You MI is sincerely General Meeting MI is planning “ to develop a Mountain Centre at Mountaineering Ireland is a success Tibradden in the Dublin Mountains. primarily because of the active grateful to all the In late 2011 MI advertised a tender involvement of members volunteering process for the development of a for a wide range of posts, both within volunteers who feasibility study. This centre will have clubs and as representatives in various a focus on training, education and external organisations and internal make such a rich information. committees. MI is sincerely grateful to all the volunteers who make such a Careful financial management is a rich contribution to this organisation, contribution to this critical factor and MI aims to continue our sport and the protection of the to embed a sustainable financial resource base we utilise. To all club culture within the organisation. MI’s organisation, our sport walk leaders, club officers, those finances at the end of 2011 show who have submitted articles, reviews a surplus despite ongoing funding and photographs for the IML, and and the protection of reductions from the Irish Sports those who have represented and Council. This is being achieved through supported MI on various fora and the resource base growing our membership, identifying events – Thank you. new revenue streams and delivering we utilise ” services efficiently.

16 External Representation List of MI Affiliated Clubs Irish Quaternary Association IQUA Kenmare Walking Club Mountaineering Ireland is represented on the (As of December 2011) Killarney Mountaineering Club following organisations: 4A’s Walking Club Kilmacthomas Walkers Coillte Social and Environmental Panels (Eastern Acara Kinsale College Mountaineering Club District and Connemara-Mayo District) An Óige Hillwalkers Club Knockadosan Hillwalking Club Comhairle Na Tuaithe Aonach ar Siúl Laune Mountaineering Club Cork Walking Cycling Network Arklow and Wicklow Hillwalking Club Lee Hillwalking & Mountaineering Club County Cork Local Sports Partnership Athlone Walking Club Letterkenny IT Hillwalking Society Dublin Mountains Initiative Ballyduff Walking Club Limerick Climbing Club Irish Adventure Sports Training Trust Ballyhoura Bears Mountaineering Club Lung Gumpas Irish Uplands Forum Ballyvaughan Fanore Walking Club Mallow Walking Club Leave No Trace Ireland Bandon Walking Club Marley Hillwalkers Mountain Rescue Ireland Bank of Ireland Hill Walking Club Maumturks Walking Club Mountaineering Coordination Group (UK and Beanna Beola Hillwalking Club Maynooth Hillwalking Club Ireland) Belfast Association of Rockclimbers and Fellrunners Mid Tipp Mountaineering Club Mountain Heritage Trust Belturbet Walks & Heritage Group Midleton Hillwalking Club Mountain Leader Training NI Bishopstown Orienteering and Hillwalking Club Midleton Climbing Club Mountain Leader Training UK Blackrock Hillwalking Club Mountain Meitheal National Coordinating Committee for Cave & Blackstairs Ramblers Muintir Na Sléibhte Mountain Rescue Blarney Walking Group Na Cnocadóirí National Committee for Commemorative Plaques Blayney Ramblers Na Coisithe in Science and Technology Bogtrotters Hill Walking Club Navan Trekkers National Trails Advisory Committee Bootleggers Nire Valley Bogtrotters Wicklow Mountains National Park Council Boyle Curlew Hillwalking Club North West Mayo Hillwalkers Wicklow Uplands Council Burren Walking Club Northern Ireland Youth Climbing Team Cahirsiveen Outdoor Club NUI Galway Mountaineering Club Carran Walking Club North West Mountaineering Club CIÉ Hillwalkers Out & About affiliations CIT Mountaineering Club Out & About NI Clare Outdoor Club Mountaineering Ireland is affiliated to the Over the Edge Hillwalking Club Clonakilty Walking Club following organisations: Ox Mountain Ramblers Clondalkin Hillwalking Club European Ramblers Association Oyster Walking Club Clooney Quin Hillwalking Club Federation of Irish Sports Peaks Mountaineering Club Club Cualann International Federation of Sports Climbing Poolbeg Ramblers Club Siúlóide Chonamara Theas Leave No Trace Ireland Queens University Mountaineering Club Cobh Hillwalking Club Northern Ireland Environmental Link Rainbow Hill Walking Club Coconuts Northern Ireland Sports Forum Rathgormack Climbing Club Colmcille Climbers Union Internationale des Association Rathgormack Ramblers Comeragh Mountaineering Club d’Alpinisme (UIAA) Roscrea Ramblers Co-op Climbing Club Wicklow Uplands Council Rosway Walkers Cork Backpackers Club Savage Craic Climbing Club Cork Mountaineering Club Shanganagh Ramblers Crannagh Ramblers Shelmalier Walking Club Working relationships Croom Abu Siúl Walking Club Crows Hillwalkers Skibbereen Walking Group In addition to the above we also work closely with Cumann Siúl Cois Coiribe Sliabh Bán Ramblers the following organisations: Cumann Sléibhteoireachta - Annascaul Walkers Sliabh Luachra Hillwalking Club Access and Conservation Trust (ACT) Cumann Sléibhteoireachta Chorca Dhuibhne - Slieve Aughty Walking Club Birdwatch Ireland (BWI) Dingle Hillwalking Club Sligo Mountaineering Club British Mountaineering Council (BMC) Dal Riada Climbing Club Sligo Walking Club Catholic Guides of Ireland (CGI) DCU Rockclimbing Club Spartan Red Sox Walking Club Coaching Ireland (CI) Defence Forces Association of Mountaineers Sperrins Hillwalking Club Coillte DIT Mountaineering Club St. Kevin’s College, Dublin Countryside Access and Activities Network for Dublin Phoenix Nordic Walking Club Strabane Hillwalking & Rambling Club Northern Ireland (CAAN) Dublin University Climbing Club The Arch Co-op Dublin Mountains Partnership (DMP) Dublin Wicklow Mountain Rescue Team The Bushcraft Club Fáilte Ireland Dungarvan Walking Club The Coolaney Walkers Club Ganaway Activity Centre Dunmanway Walking Club The Goya Gang Gartan OEC Dunsany Walking Club The Team Project Gortatole OEC Enniscrone Walking Club The Wayfarers Irish Girl Guides (IGG) ESB Hillwalking Club Tinahely Walking Club Irish Sports Council (ISC) Evolution Climbing Club Tralee Mountaineering Club Irish Wildlife Trust (IWT) Ferrard Ramblers Club Tredagh Trekkers Kerry Recreation and Sports Partnership Fineos Hillwalking Club Trekkers Mountaineering Club Mardyke Arena, Cork Fitzamblers Trinity College Hiking Club Mountaineering Council of Scotland (MCofS) Foyle Hillwalking and Rambling Club Tullow Mountaineering Club Mountain Leader Training Northern Ireland Foxford Ramblers Tyndall Mountaineering Club (MLTNI) Galtee Walking Club UCC Mountaineering Club Mountain Leader Training United Kingdom Galway Walking Club UCD Mountaineering Club (MLTUK) Garda Mountaineering & Canoeing Club University of Ulster Jordanstown Mountaineering Mourne Heritage Trust (MHT) Glanbia Hillwalking Club Club National Parks & Wildlife Service (NPWS) Glenwalk Waterford IT Mountaineering Club National Trails Office (NTO) GMIT Mountaineering Club West Clare Walking Club Ozone Complex, Belfast Grey Lake Ramblers Westport Hillwalking and Mountaineering Club Rural Recreation Section, Department of GWATS Walking Club West Wicklow Walkers Environment, Community & Local Government Hanging Rockers Wexford Hillwalking Club (RRS) Imaal Walkers Winders Climbing Club Scouting Ireland (SI) Irish Mountaineering Club Woolgreen Walking Club Sport Northern Ireland (SNI) Irish Ramblers Club The Heritage Council Institution Mountaineering Club Tollymore Outdoor Centre Irish Christian Hillwalking Club Ulster Federation of Rambling Clubs (UFRC) Irish Geological Association E&OE 17 This is a CarbonNeutral® publication, printed by a CarbonNeutral® certified company, where carbon dioxide emissions are measured and reduced at source. Unavoidable emissions are offset by supporting a variety of renewable energy and clean technology projects which save equivalent amounts of (CO2e). This publication is printed on Revive 100 Offset, an FSC certified material, which promotes sustainable and responsible forest management. FSC certification supports responsible forest management worldwide.

Mountaineering Ireland Sléibhteoireacht éireann Sport HQ, 13 Joyce Way, Park West Business Park, Dublin 12, Ireland Telephone 00 353 (0)1 6251115 email: [email protected] website: www.mountaineering.ie Tollymore Outdoor Centre, Bryansford, Newcastle, County Down, BT33 0PT, Northern Ireland Telephone (+44) (0) 28 4372 5354