Concerns are rising in Ireland over the state of the country's holiest mountain, Croagh Patrick. Locals say the mountain is being worn down and damaged by modern hikers who are failing to respect the nature of the land.
Legend has it that in 441 AD St. Patrick resided on the mountain for 40 days and 40 nights whilst fasting, making this a monumental landmark in Ireland's history. However, if popular opinion is right, the mountain may not be there forever if no preventative measures are taken against the damage that is being caused by the hiking enthusiasts in their outdoor clothing.
A local priest, Father Michael Macgreil, warns, "If we don't do something about Croagh Patrick it won't be there in the future" at the latest Western Tourism Organisation AGM in Mayo.
"The growing number of climbers on the mountain is now cutting into the mountain and their heels are digging into the shale on the path. It is not like when pilgrims went up in their bare feet; they didn't damage the path."
It is reported that areas of the pathway that leads to the top of the peak are now virtually inaccessible as a result of the harm being done to the land, which has led to nine medical emergencies to which the Mayo Mountain Rescue team have been called out.
Sadly, visitors are now being warned to avoid climbing to the summit in order to prevent further injuries because of the erosion and treacherous terrain.
Legend has it that in 441 AD St. Patrick resided on the mountain for 40 days and 40 nights whilst fasting, making this a monumental landmark in Ireland's history. However, if popular opinion is right, the mountain may not be there forever if no preventative measures are taken against the damage that is being caused by the hiking enthusiasts in their outdoor clothing.
A local priest, Father Michael Macgreil, warns, "If we don't do something about Croagh Patrick it won't be there in the future" at the latest Western Tourism Organisation AGM in Mayo.
"The growing number of climbers on the mountain is now cutting into the mountain and their heels are digging into the shale on the path. It is not like when pilgrims went up in their bare feet; they didn't damage the path."
It is reported that areas of the pathway that leads to the top of the peak are now virtually inaccessible as a result of the harm being done to the land, which has led to nine medical emergencies to which the Mayo Mountain Rescue team have been called out.
Sadly, visitors are now being warned to avoid climbing to the summit in order to prevent further injuries because of the erosion and treacherous terrain.
No comments:
Post a Comment