30th June 2020

The Irish government has further relaxed lockdown restrictions to allow larger groups to gather and the complete lifting of travel restrictions on the island of Ireland as of 29th July 2020. As a result we are recommending groups of up 15 people from different households can meet outside. More detailed guidance on Phase 3 can be found here. This is the latest Irish Government guidance and is live on 29th June.

The key points are:

• The lifting of travel restrictions.
• Whilst larger group sizes are permitted, we are continuing to recommend maximum groups of up to 15, including trainers and coaches, while maintaining social distancing at all times.
• Maintain appropriate hygiene measures both personal and for equipment rigorously in line with wider guidance on hygiene, for example by using antiviral spray and washing hands thoroughly before and after use.
• Maintain physical/social distancing of 2 metres as per government guidance.

Mountain Training Board Ireland (MTBI) has considered the guidance above and believe it may be possible for some providers to deliver a limited range of Mountain Training courses in Ireland subject to appropriate control measures.

At all times, you should continue to adhere to strict social distancing guidelines when you are outside your home, particularly ensuring you are two metres away from anyone outside your household. Here are five things you should know for Phase 3:

• Travel: You may travel across Ireland.
• Meeting other people: Larger groups are permitted, but we are recommending groups of up to 15 people.
• Shops: All retail is reopening. Shop locally, shop safely and support businesses in your community.
• Work from home: It is more important than ever to work from home where possible.
• Transport: Walk or cycle if you can. Only use public transport if you absolutely need to. Public transport capacity is limited because of social distancing requirements.

Courses may not lend themselves to involve overnight stays (including camping) or the use of indoor venues for briefings, course delivery or debriefs. Climbing walls or facilities may or may not can be used, and providers can work on a maximum ratio of 1:4, 6 or 8 or as per the scheme handbook ratios.

Currently we advise that the following training and assessment courses may be viable to run:

• Hill Skills & Mountain Skills
• Mountain Skills
• Rock Skills Introduction
• Rock Skills Intermediate
• Rock Skills Learn to Lead: Sport (social distancing may render delivery very difficult)
• Rock Skills Learn to Lead: Trad (social distancing may render delivery very difficult)
• Rock Climbing Development Instructor
• Lowland Leader
• Hill and Moorland Leader
• Mountain Leader – outdoor training (ML 1) and reassessments only (no overnight element)
• Rock Climbing Instructor – outdoor training (social distancing may render delivery very difficult) and
• outdoor reassessments only (walls not open for indoor aspects.)
• Multi-Pitch Award – (social distancing may render delivery very difficult)