Croagh PatrickA PROFESSIONAL survey is to be conducted of the Croagh Patrick pathway following local concerns raised over the deterioration of the trail.

Fáilte Ireland West has secured the services of a member of the British Mountaineering Council to conduct the study of the Reek next Monday.

The findings of the report will form the basis of a coordinated approach to the use of Croagh Patrick for sporting and fundraising events.

Thousands of pilgrims scale the holy mountain each year, culminating in a huge influx on Reek Sunday, the last Sunday in July.

Brian Quinn, client services manager, Fáilte Ireland West, confirmed his organisation is funding the assessment after an approach was made by members of Murrisk Development Association.

A similar study was carried out last year at Carrauntoohill, Co. Kerry, and the subsequent action plan proved very successful, John Groden, chairman, Murrisk Development Association, said there is no question of people’s freedom to climb and enjoy the Reek being taken away.

 

The main objective of his group is to ensure that a number of different events will not take place on the same day and members of the public could log into a website to find out the suitability of climbing on a particular date.

He added: “Because of the absence of a coordinated approach, a situation can arise whereby professional athletes and ordinary pilgrims are using the mountain at the same time. That’s not a suitable situation for either group.

“With a little bit of effort, these sort of clashes can be avoided and there is a strong feeling a proper plan must be put in place.”

Mr. Groden added he did not think it is feasible to construct a concrete pathway on the Reek to halt the level of deterioration at the peak.