Mountain Rescue Callout Disgrace

The recent rescue of two Dundalk couples from the Cooley mountains in the one incident, which involved fire crews from Dundalk and Carlingford, as well as an ambulance from Dundalk poses some some serious questions.

It would appear they went for a drive on St. Stephens Day, on the section of the mountain west of the Long Woman's Grave, in the area of the Clermont Cairn, where the television ond communications mast is sited and with the prevailing icy conditions, their vehicle got stuck.

No doubt they all had mobile phones in their pockets, but instead of calling a friend to arrange for a 4x4 or local tractor to help get them out, they call the emergency services and tie up their time for hours.

In accordance with the callout charges introduced in recent years it would be a lesson to them if they are saddled with a hefty bill for their shenanigans.