Donegal Mountain Rescue Team looks to bolster its numbers with recruitment drive

Donegal Mountain Rescue Team (DMRT) has launched a recruitment drive to bolster its life-saving volunteer service.

The team is seeking to add approximately 10 committed individuals to respond to emergencies in Donegal's uphill and remote terrain.

Following a busy period with 22 callouts last year alone, DMRT is looking to strengthen its capacity to serve the community and visitors to one of Ireland's most spectacular but challenging landscapes.

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“The increasing popularity of outdoor recreation in Donegal has led to more demand for our services,” said Aaron Guthrie, public relations officer for DMRT.

“We’re looking for people with dedication and a good level of fitness who want to make a real difference in their community. While previous experience isn't necessary to join, those with rope skills, familiar with rock climbing, mountain navigation experience, or Mountain Skills qualifications will be particularly valuable additions to our team.

“Some of our most dedicated team members joined with little previous technical experience. But while some didn't have direct qualifications in mountain rescue, they brought something else that was unique and valuable. If you think you have something like that, do let us know in the application form.”

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The recruitment drive comes at a critical time, as the team continues to respond to a diverse range of emergencies across Donegal's mountains, cliffs, and remote areas.

DMRT volunteers provide an essential, 365 day a year, round the clock service in all weather conditions.

Requirements the mountain rescue service is looking for include a good level of fitness to navigate rugged terrain, being a team player with good communication skills, having commitment to attend regular training sessions, reliability to respond to callouts when available and residence within a 90-minute drive of Glenveagh National Park.

Skills which are highly valuable but not necessarily required are Mountain Skills 1 and 2 qualifications, first aid training, technical climbing and rope skills and navigation or orienteering experience.

Successful applicants will receive comprehensive training in mountain rescue techniques, first aid, navigation, and search operations.

The team emphasises that no prior qualifications are necessary to apply, though technical skills are beneficial.

Those interested in joining can apply through the DMRT website at www.donegalmrt.ie. The recruitment process will remain open until all positions are filled. Applicants may be invited to in-person information sessions.

DMRT is a registered charity that operates 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, responding to emergencies in Donegal's mountains and remote areas. The team relies entirely on volunteers and public donations to maintain its life-saving service.