Following the annual climb of Croagh Patrick last weekend which resulted in a number of pilgrims being injured, local Westport Electoral Area councillors have called for more safety measures to be put in place at The Reek.
During its meeting on Monday morning last, Fine Gael councillor Peter Flynn said that some sort of flag system should be implemented at the base, which will tell climbers about weather and safety conditions that day. Cllr Flynn also said that signage should be erected to highlight the proper clothing and footwear needed to climb the mountain.
Cllr Austin Francis O’Malley suggested that a handrail be placed at the most dangerous points of Croagh Patrick, however,Cllr Margaret Adams said that this has not been been done in the past due to a question of liability, while Cllr John O’Malley said that a handrail would spoil the look of the mountain.
Senior executive officer Martin Keating said that the council is looking at putting signage in the car park to tell the story of Croagh Patrick. Incorporating safety signage could be worked on in tandem with the Murrisk Development Association.
All councillors commended the “trojan work” demonstrated by local volunteer groups, the Order of Malta, Mayo Mountain Rescue, and local gardaí on Reek Sunday.
