Croagh Patrick to get emergency heli-pad

Mayo County Council has proposed a permanent emergency helicopter landing pad for Croagh Patrick, which attracts thousands of pilgrims and outdoor enthusiasts every year.

The decision to provide such a facility, either on the summit or the higher slopes of the 765m-high mountain, comes as no surprise given the annual high injury toll among climbers.

Coastguard helicopters fly dozens of rescue sorties each year. Injured climbers are usually taken to Mayo General Hospital in Castlebar, 22km away.

A spokesman for the council said the plans are “at the early stages”.

Mayo Mountain Rescue expressed support for a landing pad.