Speleological Union of Ireland


The Speleological Union of Ireland is the official representative body of cavers in Ireland, both in the Republic of Ireland and in Northern Ireland. It is affiliated with the Irish Cave Rescue Organisation. Collectively they are known as SUICRO.

History

The SUI was founded as the Speleological Society of Ireland in 1964 to promote speleology in Ireland. Jack Coleman was the first president. The society was reconstituted in 1983 as the Speleological Union of Ireland. In 2002 the SUI was set up as a limited company.

Functions

The SUI provides training for cave leaders and new cavers and represents cavers' interests in disputes with landowners. It also works to protect Irish caves from damage by human influence, including dumping, quarrying, development, and promotes a strong conservation ethic to cavers. The organisation promotes awareness of caves and safe caving, providing information for beginners wishing to try caving.
The SUI publishes a scientific journal, Irish Speleology, and grant aid is often provided by the organisation for international caving expeditions. In August 2012 the Kozłowski Fund was additionally set up to support cave exploration within Ireland, in memory of prolific cave diver and explorer Artur Kozłowski.
The SUI, in conjunction with the Irish Cave Rescue Organisation, organises an annual symposium for Irish cavers. It has been held every year since 1985.

''Irish Speleology''

Irish Speleology is the official caving journal published by the SUI. It is the longest-running caving journal in Ireland, and was first published in September 1965 as the Journal of the Speleological Society of Ireland. Volumes 1 to 4 were published as multiple issues, however following volume 4 issue 2, the next release was volume 13, and numbering has been sequential since.