Ramblers Code of Conduct
The aim of this Code of Conduct is to help create a positive and thriving club environment, to promote responsible behaviour, enhance safety, foster inclusivity, and to provide a framework for conflict resolution. By adhering to a shared code of conduct, members of the Irish Ramblers Club can contribute to a more enjoyable and rewarding hillwalking experience for all. By joining and participating in our club, you agree to abide by these guidelines.
Respect and Inclusivity
The Irish Ramblers Club is an inclusive club and expects its members to treat each other with courtesy and respect, regardless of their experience level, background, or personal characteristics.
We promote a positive environment. Sexist, racist, ageist, harassment, bullying or other discriminatory behaviour in words or actions is not tolerated. Any behaviour that marginalises, intimidates, or excludes others is unacceptable.
Safety and Responsibility
Hillwalking has the potential to be a dangerous activity and may result in personal injury or death. Participants should be aware of and accept these risks and be responsible for their own actions and involvement.
Participation in club activities is not an automatic right and can be restricted by the committee and /or the leader on the day based on relevant skill, experience, health or other mitigating factors. Please refer to the guidelines for leaders and members for more details. In addition, members must abide by the guidelines that may be set out by the club in accordance with Mountaineering Ireland’s advice and policies.
All club members, leaders and volunteers as part of this club shall follow the law when it comes to illegal drugs, alcohol and tobacco and shall display leadership and good example.
Club members, leaders or volunteers shall not present themselves at club walks or climbs while under the influence of alcohol or any other illegal/non-prescription drug.
Communication
The IRC endeavours to maintain open and honest communication with club members and leaders and to share any concerns, issues, or feedback constructively.
All communication of an official nature within the club and between its members must be done in a recorded medium such as emails or over a club forum. If a member has concerns, they should raise the matter with a member of the Executive committee.
Members should aim to actively participate in club activities and meetings, share knowledge and skills with others, fostering a supportive learning environment.
Handling Conflicts
Members should address conflicts or grievances respectfully and through appropriate channels.
In the Irish Ramblers Club, all complaints should be directed to the Club Secretary in the first instance. If the Club Secretary is directly involved in the complaint, then the complaint should be addressed to the Club President.
Respect for the Environment and Local Communities
Access to the outdoors is fundamental to the activities of hillwalking. Much of our activity takes place on privately-owned land, due to the goodwill and tolerance of landowners. Club members are asked to recognise that each one of us shares in the responsibility to protect access by helping to maintain positive relations with landowners and the local community in the areas where we walk and climb.
Many activities take place in sensitive natural environments, and it’s important to minimise environmental impact. Members should keep within existing path lines where possible, avoid leaving litter, and follow any specific guidelines provided by the club or for the areas visited.
Social Media and Public Representation
Members should be mindful of the content shared on social media, ensuring it reflects positively on the club and respects the privacy of members. Members should obtain permission before sharing photos or videos of members, especially in public forums.
Voluntary Club Leaders
Club leaders are recruited from suitably skilled members of the club.
They must lead by example, and always put the welfare of everyone involved first and foremost. Please refer to the guidelines for leaders and members for more details
Concern for welfare is difficult, if someone has gone ahead of the leader!
Prospective club leaders are encouraged to let the committee know their interest in taking on a leadership role who will facilitate necessary training and mentoring for that role.
The Irish Ramblers Club always needs new people willing and able to help out and will support and encourage anyone interested to progress in the necessary skills.
All leaders should be fairly treated and respected for the tasks they are doing, and if you are being led you should behave according to their instructions to ensure your own safety and the safety of others.
Committee Members
Committee members are democratically elected members who accept their role within the committee structure to do the best possible job based upon the role description presented under their title.
Committee members must be willing to operate in an impartial and transparent manner, always putting the best interest of the club first.
Committee members must be adequately accessible to members of the club and must attend the relevant club activities to be able to perform their duties properly.
Gear and Equipment
All members are expected to have appropriate gear and equipment for safe hillwalking in line with the list of Hiking Essentials available on the IRC website and published in the Rambler.
It is the sole responsibility of each individual to make sure their personal equipment and gear is appropriate for use in the weather conditions on the day. However, the leader on the day can make a judgement on whether a member is prepared for the weather conditions and terrain of the hike and tell the member that they can’t participate with the group that day.
Note:
Breaches of this code of conduct may result in disciplinary action, including warnings, suspension, or termination of club membership.
Members are encouraged to report any violations of the code of conduct to the club committee.
