Challenging conditions for Reek Sunday due to heavy rain
Members of Mayo Mountain Rescue came to the aid of a woman at Croagh Patrick yesterday evening.
She was suffering from exhaustion and had very sore knees after the her long climb.
The team provided emergency care and stretchered her off the mountain to a waiting ambulance.
The team were stood down at 8.41 p.m.
Members of Mayo Mountain Rescue will be on duty throughout national pilgrimage day at the Reek.
Thousands of people will climb the the holy mountain during the course of the day.
Climbing conditions are challenging due to heavy rain.
A medical tent has been erected on the ridge of the mountain.
The medical team consists of a doctor, two nurses, an Order of Malta volunteer and a mountain rescue liaison person.
Mayo Mountain Rescue teams have been in position since 7 a.m.
There will be members in attendance at the base of the Reek until 6 p.m.
A spokesperson stated: "In addition to feeding, briefing and deploying MR teams, we have set up a communication centre to coordinate the rescue and emergency services, including MR teams, Air Corps Helicopter, located in Murrisk, Coast Guard, if needed, and to liaise with the Order of Malta and AGS.
"If you are climbing today, plan to stay dry, warm, well fed and watered.
"Take it easy and, if you're not feeling well please talk to one of the many service providers on the hill.
"Look out for each other and, most importantly, enjoy."
Archbishop Eamon Martin, Archbishop of Armagh and Primate of All Ireland, will celebrate Mass in the small church at the summit at 11 a.m.
This year's Reek Sunday is dedicated to vocations to the priesthood and has been designated as one of the key initiatives to highlight the Year for Vocations to the Diocesan Priesthood taking place across Ireland over 2023-2024.
Fr. Charlie McDonnell, Administrator of the local parish of Westport, told RTÉ News: "Our Church needs vocations to the priesthood like never before.
"No doubt it is a challenging time to minister as a priest, but in my role I find that serving the people of God in today's counter-cultural environment is nothing short of a faith-enriching experience."