In 2025, Mountaineering Ireland introduced a change to the production of our much-valued magazine. Due to financial constraints, namely extensive postage costs, the Board made the difficult decision to adopt a hybrid model producing two online and two printed editions per year. This allowed us to continue delivering engaging content to members while exploring the opportunities offered by digital publishing.
Over the past year, we have gathered feedback from members, including a very positive discussion at the recent Members’ Forum during the Autumn Gathering. The feedback clearly indicates that the printed edition of the magazine remains highly valued by our members and should continue as the primary format. While the online editions have been appreciated by some, they are generally not regarded as highly as the printed version.
Taking this feedback into account, the Board has made a decision regarding the magazine’s format for 2026. For next year, there will be two printed editions of the Mountain Log only, one in Spring and one in Autumn. There will be no separate digital edition. This change will allow us to continue delivering a high-quality publication twice a year, while also reducing both financial cost and environmental impact compared to producing four printed editions annually.
To ensure the magazine continues to offer the very best content, we will focus primarily on feature articles. More immediate updates such as news, events, and announcements will be shared through our social media channels, website, and monthly newsletter. The final 2025 Winter edition will go ahead as planned as a digital Mountain Log. This is due to be circulated to members in early December.
We encourage members to:
• Make sure you are subscribed to the monthly newsletter and follow Mountaineering Ireland on social media for the latest updates
• Explore the new search function for the Mountain Log on our website, which allows you to access and read previous editions
• Let us know if your preference is to receive no physical mountain log, instead accessing it digitally via our website
• Let us know if more than one copy is being delivered to your household and you wish to reduce this to one only
Finally, we want to assure members that this decision has been made following careful consideration, discussion, and most importantly the valuable feedback provided by our members.
Photo credit:Maitiú Ó Coimín