In a major search and rescue operation on the Galtee Mountains in Tipperary today, two people were rescued and nine were assisted off the mountains. In a 5 hour operation involving search teams and a search dog team from SARDA "Search & Rescue Dog Association", two female walkers that had become separated from a family group were located. The two, who were very cold and wet, were located between Galtymore and Galtybeg in what was described as terrible weather conditions. They were given clothing and food and rewarmed before they were taken off the mountain. The remainder of the family party also became lost on Galtymore, but managed to make their way into the Glen of Aherlow. As the search for the two female walkers started, four other walkers became lost on Galtymore. Fortunately for them, they were able to make their way down the mountain and be picked up by MR personnel or made their own way back to their cars.

SEMRA would like to thank the two walkers from the UK that gave assistance in locating the two female walkers, their intervention and help saved a lot of time and was much appreciated by all.

SEMRA Team Leader Michael Power said "Very poor weather conditions descended on the mountains and people that were not prepared got caught out". He reminded people that if they intend to walk in the mountains, they should go prepared with map & compass and the proper clothing, footwear and food, and not to rely on ther mobile phone to get out of trouble..

SEMRA is a VOLUNTARY 999/112 24/7/365 search and rescue service covering all the mountains of the south east of Ireland. It has 35 members and has responded to 8 incidents so far this year.

Jimmy Barry
PRO SEMRA
M 087 2975178
www.semra.ie