Most walking and climbing activities in Ireland take place in the natural environment, therefore access to the outdoors is absolutely fundamental to the sport of mountaineering. An appreciation and understanding of the environment can greatly enhance our enjoyment of our activities in the outdoors.

MI’s work on access and conservation is focused on two core objectives:

-      To secure continued access to mountain areas and crags

-      To promote the conservation and responsible use of the mountain environment

Many MI members contribute to MI’s work towards these objectives, formally through MI’s Access and Conservation Committee, roles on club and other committees, and informally through vigilance and personal action to protect access and the mountain environment. The access and conservation efforts of MI volunteers are supported by a full-time Hillwalking, Access & Conservation Officer. Helen Lawless was appointed to this post in April 2010, when she returned to MI after three years working with the Wicklow Uplands Council.

More information on MI’s access and conservation work is available through the links on the left of this page. If you have further questions, contact Helen Lawless on (+353 1) 625 1115 or helen@mountaineering.ie.