Climbers hoping to tackle Mount Everest could in future be required to have already scaled tall peaks, undergone proper training, possess a certificate of good health and have insurance that would cover rescue costs if required.

Mountain rescue experts have repeated warnings about the dangers of climbing on Ireland’s highest mountain range in near Alpine conditions after a man was airlifted from Carrauntoohil yesterday.

A 25-strong search team will brave severe sub-zero temperatures and the risk of an avalanche in the continuing hunt for two climbers missing for a week in the Scottish Highlands.