04/03/25 –Inappropriate bolting in Pollasillagh Co. Fermanagh 

(Bolts inspected on 2nd March 2025 by Les Brown, Alasdair Kennedy and Stephen Read)

Three bolts had been placed on the entrance ladder pitch (or bold free climb) in Pollasillagh. These bolts have been in recent use by cavers for progression, using SRT or ladder & lifeline, to access the cave. SUI strongly advises that these bolts should not be used. Below we share the description and inspection of the bolts, so that the reasoning for their removal is clear. 

The first bolt lies back from the pitch head on the left side of the passage and was placed in a large discreet boulder of unknown stability.  The second and third bolts were positioned higher up above the pitch head for a Y-hang, with one bolt placed in a large, discreet boulder which is not substantially supported. 

Whilst the main concern with the route is the placement of bolts in boulders it should also be noted that the backup bolt for the main rig was also significantly lower than the Y-hang. So for this particular route the anchor placement was poor both in terms of geology but also shock load prevention.

One proposal put to the SUI has been to improve the historic access via ladder and lifeline by installing bolts appropriate for this technique; this would replace one old, rusted spit with new resin bolts. SUI will provide an update when a replacement route has been agreed and the new bolts have been installed. In the meantime we will arrange for the bolts to be removed.

As always, if you come across bolts that you have concerns about, please do report them to SUI.

09/03/25 – John Thomas Hole, Co Fermanagh

The Entrance series of John Thomas Hole does not require SRT for progression, please do not use any bolts in-situ for progression.
As always, if you come across bolts that you have concerns about, please do report them to SUI.

10/03/25 – Pollnagossan Cave, County Cavan

Please be aware that the SRT progression route in Pollnagossan Cave is being reviewed for re-bolting. Also, do be aware that there has been a recent rock fall of a chert ledge on the main pitch. At this time the progression route on the main pitch consists of spits and Petzl permanent bolts. 

Until the cave is re-bolted, access to the cave should be undertaken with due care and caution. A friendly reminder to please always check any bolts before you use them and if you are placing slings on natural anchors carefully inspect the rock first (avoid using any natural anchors that are chert). SUI will provide an update on the rebolting of Pollnagossan when it has been completed.