The Kerryman (South Kerry Edition)
On Kerry’s rooftop for half a century
IN 1966 after a spate of accidents on Carrauntoohil, a small group of volunteers decided to set up a rescue team that meant putting their own lives in danger in the pursuit of saving others. During the decades that followed, a steady flow of volunteers gave freely of their time to help ensure Kerry’s mountains could be enjoyed, safe in the knowledge that a committed rescue team was close at hand.
Fast forward to July 2017 and Kerry Mountain Rescue Team (KMRT) receive a well-earned civic reception in honour of its contribution to the social and recreational life of Kerry.
During Monday’s reception held at County Buildings in Rathass, KMRT Chairman Jimmy Laide expressed his sincere thanks and gratitude to the council for the honour and thanked the public for donating funds to KMRT over the years which helped keep the organisation going. “It’s a great honour and a nice way to get recognition for all the hard work past and present members do,” said Colm Burke, PRO of KMRT.
Colm said the organisation was formed following the death of two climbers on ‘The Reeks’ 51 years ago. Originally based in Killorglin, the team started out with minimal equipment and training but realised a rescue service was needed in Kerry given its terrain and popularity.
“KMRT has really developed since that time and over the years the training and equipment has really progressed. At the moment we have 35 volunteers, all of whom are passionate mountaineers in their own right and who invest a great deal of time throughout the year in training and maintenance. I also want to include the families of the volunteers in this award as they understand the nature of callouts is anything but predictable,” Colm added.